Public Transit

Based on widespread input from Scarborough communities, SCAN has a mandate to focus on the equity issue of the need for affordable transit fares for lower income groups and better bus service through supporting civic engagement in the following ways:

INFORMATION-SHARING

Empowering Scarborough residents to have a voice in decision-making processes—such as the TTC’s 5-Year Fare Strategy—through access to relevant and timely information, including:
  • Regular features in SCAN’s newsletter highlighting opportunities to provide input on TTC fare policies, service planning, and strategic consultations.

  • Showcasing stories of Scarborough TTC users who have taken civic action to advocate for equitable fares and improved bus service.

  • Educating communities on how the TTC is funded—particularly the reliance on fare box revenue—compared to public transit systems in other cities.

 

CAPACITY-BUILDING


Supporting Scarborough residents in learning how to advocate for better bus service and more affordable transit by building their policy knowledge and advocacy skills. This will include:
  • Developing a workshop series in partnership with transit advocacy groups, focused on:

    • Understanding the current landscape of transit affordability and service measures—how they came to be and what gaps remain.

    • Comparing fare structures and service delivery in other cities and countries.

    • Equipping participants with tools to effectively engage elected officials, influence public consultations, and participate in campaigns—drawing on real-world examples and successful advocacy models.

  • Collaborating with seniors’ organizations and other local groups to deliver these workshops in accessible, community-based settings.

 

CIVIC ACTION CAMPAIGNS


Mobilizing residents—especially regular bus users—to demand better bus service and transit equity measures for Scarborough. This includes:
  • Expanding SCAN’s Right to Ride campaign to push for tangible improvements such as reduced crowding on buses and a 3-hour transfer window for Scarborough riders.

  • Establishing an advisory group of Scarborough bus riders to identify and lead 3–5 targeted civic actions at key decision-making moments.

  • Focusing advocacy on underserved transit areas (e.g., the northeast) and overcrowded routes, ensuring that riders receive value for their fare and equitable service access. 

 

Priority Communities for 2024-2025:

  • The economically vulnerable.
  • Racialized communities.
  • Residents in underserved neighbourhoods.
  • Immigrants.
  • Seniors.
  • Women.
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