Undoubtedly, the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) has become a riskier environment, especially for women, seniors, and children since the onset of COVID-19. The levels of violence have increased, and disruptions in passenger safety due to individuals under the influence of drugs and alcohol have become more prevalent. Additionally, a record number of mentally ill individuals are seeking refuge in the stations. These issues have significantly impacted the overall safety and security of the TTC system, causing concern among regular commuters and occasional riders alike.

In response to these growing challenges, the TTC is taking steps to improve safety within its network. One of the key initiatives includes providing de-escalation training to all Chief and Mobile Supervisors, equipping them with the skills necessary to handle potentially volatile situations and support station staff more effectively. This training aims to reduce the likelihood of confrontations escalating into violence, ensuring a safer environment for all passengers.

Furthermore, the TTC has updated its schedules to ensure an increased employee presence in known hotspots and during peak times. This strategic move is intended to avoid any potential illicit behaviour and provide immediate assistance in case of emergencies. By having more staff on the ground, the TTC hopes to create a more secure and reassuring environment for its users.

While these measures are positive steps forward, more needs to be done to ensure that TTC riders feel genuinely secure and confident in using the service. A crucial aspect of this is restoring the public's trust in the safety of the TTC, which is a basic right for every citizen of Toronto. To achieve this, we strongly advocate for a mandated police presence at each station. The constant visibility of law enforcement officers would act as a significant deterrent to criminal activities and provide immediate intervention when necessary.

Having an officer readily available at each station would not only give riders peace of mind but also encourage them to report any troubling or criminal behavior they might witness. This proactive approach would foster a sense of civic duty among passengers, contributing to a safer and more vigilant community.

We believe that by implementing these measures, the TTC can transform into a safer and more secure public transportation system for everyone. However, we need your support to make this vision a reality. Join us in our effort to gather signatures to present to the City’s mayor, urging the council to address this important issue. Together, we can work towards creating a TTC that prioritizes the safety and well-being of all its riders.