TTC introduces temporary adult ticket. Token sales halted until new year.

The Toronto Transit Commission is introducing a temporary adult ticket starting tomorrow, November 23, and suspending all token sales until Jan. 3, 2010.

The measure is designed to ensure the TTC has sufficient tokens to meet normal demand in January after the recently approved fare increase comes into effect. The TTC also has a financial responsibility to ensure revenue losses are stemmed whenever possible. Without taking these steps today, the TTC could lose more than $5 million in 2010 revenues due to token hoarding.

“TTC riders have been understandably frustrated by the current token restriction. By issuing temporary tickets, the TTC has found a way to allow customers to buy bulk fares in the short term,” said TTC Chair Adam Giambrone. “This announcement today alleviates customer frustrations, and also allows the TTC to ensure it doesn’t lose, potentially, millions of dollars in much-needed revenue.”

While the TTC will not limit the number of temporary tickets people can purchase at one time, this temporary adult ticket will not be sold after Jan. 2, 2010. Customers with temporary adult tickets after that date will be required to add 25 cents to the farebox with their temporary ticket to match the new 2010 adult fare of $2.50. After Jan. 31, 2010 the temporary adult ticket will not be accepted as fare. The TTC will neither refund nor exchange temporary adult tickets.
 
Temporary adult tickets will cost the same as the current token price of 5 for $11.25 or 10 for $22.50.
 
Tokens will continue to be accepted as fare, and single tokens can still be purchased at token vending machines throughout the subway system. The TTC will also supply authorized ticket agents and institutions that purchase large quantities of tokens with temporary adult tickets until Jan. 2, 2010.