TTC partners with CityFund and local artists to create A Streetcar Named Toronto

As the remaining Canadian Light Rail Vehicles (CLRVs) head toward retirement after 40 years of serving commuters, the TTC has partnered with CityFund and local artists to send one off in unique style.

A Streetcar Named Toronto is a public art project that pays tribute to this unique civic icon.

"The retirement of the CLRV has presented a rare opportunity for the TTC to not only support the arts, but also to set a new bar for the integration of art on public transit," said TTC Chair Jaye Robinson.

Several local artists were selected to transform streetcar #4178. Jacquie Comrie painted the exterior of the vehicle using a variety of paints and full spectrum palettes, including neons and glow-in-the-dark paint, making it visible to everyone at night.

The interior will feature art activations by Nicole Beno, Ryan Van der Hout and Chris Perez, along with textile and lighting modifications by Suanne McGregor.

The vehicle will run until December primarily on the 506 Carlton route during the week and periodically on the 501 Queen route on weekends. It will also run on 511 Bathurst during Nuit Blanche on Sat., Oct. 5.

Funding for A Streetcar Named Toronto is provided through CityFund, a new charity dedicated to bringing the city to life.

“It's been a thrill to be able to do this,” said CityFund President Mark Fiorillo. “Art is often a destination kind of thing so to be able to bring it to people in an intimate space like this and show them something during their commute that they might not otherwise see is a real privilege.”

The first CLRV was put into service 40 years ago this week, on Sept. 30, 1979, on the 507 Long Branch (Humber Loop-Long Branch Loop) route.

The last of the CLRVs will be retired in December with other special commemorative events planned between now and the end of the year.

In addition to being spotted on the streets of downtown Toronto, the public can catch an up-close look at this vehicle during a community event to be held on Sat., Sept. 28 at Roncesvalles Carhouse, between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. A TTC/United Way barbecue will be held as part of this event.