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The next phase of the TTC’s ongoing program to improve safety for commuting customers launches next Monday with a nine-month test of cameras that will catch road users who illegally pass open streetcar doors.
Starting next Monday, July 20, four streetcars equipped with technology from B.C.-based Gatekeeper Systems will roll out on five mixed-traffic routes (501 Queen, 506 Carlton, 504 King, 511 Bathurst, and 505 Dundas). During the pilot, the cameras will measure how often illegal streetcar passing occurs, test the technology’s reliability for future automated enforcement.
It is important to note that for now, tickets will not yet be issued.
What is the law when it comes to passing streetcars?
Under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, it is illegal for road users (cars/vans, motorcycles, mopeds, e-bikes, bicycles, scooters) to pass open doors while a curbside stop is being serviced. The offence carries a fine of up to $183.25 plus three demerit points.
141 passengers hit over ten years while entering or exiting streetcars
The latest TTC data reveals that between 2014 and 2024, 141 individuals were hit by vehicles while boarding or exiting streetcars. Additionally, TTC customers and operators witness and report multiple violations and near misses every day.
“No one should have to worry about their safety when getting on or off a streetcar,” said Mayor Olivia Chow. “This pilot is an important step toward reducing dangerous driving behaviours, protecting TTC customers, and making our streets safer for all road users.”
“Every day, our customers and operators see vehicles blow past open streetcar doors, putting people at risk,” said TTC Chair Jamaal Myers.
“This pilot is an important step toward ending that behaviour and making sure everyone gets on and off the streetcar safely.”
“Safety is paramount to everything we do at the TTC, and our customers must be safe when boarding and exiting streetcars,” said TTC CEO Mandeep S. Lali. “This pilot is another way we are modernizing the TTC and using technology to improve safety. It will provide valuable insights into the extent of this problem and provide us with the data we need to make informed decisions about a broader rollout and enforcement.”
The TTC has long been committed to improving customer safety on the streetcar network. In 2017, the TTC Board requested changes to the Highway Traffic Act to enable camera enforcement. Those changes came in 2022, allowing the TTC to develop this pilot project.
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