TTC board approves 2-hour, time-based transfers for PRESTO users

The TTCboardapproved a plan Tuesday to letriders who use the PRESTO cardget on and off transit vehicles multiple times withjust one fare.

The two-hour transfer policy isscheduled to be implemented in August of 2018.

• Time for two-hour transfers, say mayor and TTC chair

The new policy will allow commuters to hop on and off transit vehicles as many times as they need within a two-hour window while only paying a single fare.

"The greatest benefit from this policy change stems from reducing the cost of transit, making it more affordable for multiple short distance trips, thereby giving TTC customers the flexibility they require to carry out everyday activities," the report by TTCstaffsaid.

The policy is estimated to cost$11.1 million in 2018 based on an implementation in August and a full-year cost of $20.9 million as of 2020.

It will alsoadd fivemillion customer trips per year, TTCstaff say.

The report says the change will help provide quality, flexible and competitive transit service to customers.

"[The policy]will help reduce the financial barrier and make transit more affordable for low-income riders. It will provide customers with greater access to the system, and an ability to make multiple short trips on one fare," the report said.

The policy willgo before city council for consideration in the 2018 budget.