Ontario is revolutionizing public transit affordability with its groundbreaking “One Fare” program, set to roll out on February 26, 2024. This initiative by the Ontario government promises significant savings for commuters, slashing expenses by an average of $1,600 annually.
Enhanced Connectivity, Reduced Costs
Under the innovative One Fare program, commuters will only need to pay once to enjoy seamless transfers between the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) and participating transit providers across the Greater Toronto Area, including GO Transit. This move aims to streamline travel and make it more cost-effective for passengers.
Participating in the One Fare Program
Riders utilizing a variety of payment methods, including the PRESTO card, PRESTO in Google Wallet, as well as debit or credit cards (both physical and mobile), will now have the privilege of transferring for free between the TTC and various transit networks, such as Brampton Transit, Durham Region Transit, MiWay, and York Region Transit. This comprehensive coverage is made possible by the Ontario government’s commitment to the One Fare Program.
Benefits for All
Students, seniors, and other commuters traversing between GO Transit and the aforementioned regional transit systems will find their cross-border journeys more accessible and economical. Thanks to the full funding provided by the Ontario government, the One Fare Program is expected to facilitate over eight million additional rides annually, significantly enhancing mobility for Ontarians.
Fare Rebates for TTC Users
Notably, TTC riders connecting to and from GO Transit will receive a fare rebate, effectively rendering their TTC journey free of charge. This rebate also extends to consumers holding TTC Fair Discount Passes, including youths, adults, post-secondary students, and seniors.
The One Fare System
Wondering how the Ontario One Fare Program operates? Here’s a breakdown:
- Traveling between TTC and Participating Transit Providers:
Upon boarding a TTC bus, or streetcar, or entering a station, simply tap your payment method (PRESTO card, PRESTO in Google Wallet, or debit/credit card) on a PRESTO reader to pay your fare.
Your two-hour transfer window will be activated and charged to your card instantaneously.
When transferring, continue tapping with your original payment method on a PRESTO reader.
As long as you’re within two hours after your initial TTC tap, subsequent transfers will be free.
For trips involving GO Transit, the TTC portion of your fare will be covered if you arrive within two hours of your first tap.
When switching to other transit vehicles during your journey, maintain the practice of tapping with your original payment method.
Remember, your tapped PRESTO card, Google Wallet or debit/credit card serves as proof of payment.
- TTC-Operated Buses to Mississauga or York Region
Similar to TTC transfers, tap your payment method upon boarding.
Your two-hour transfer window will commence, and the fare will be deducted accordingly.
When alighting a TTC-operated bus in Mississauga or York Region, tap your original payment method again.
No additional charge will be incurred for MiWay or York Region Transit if you’re within two hours of your initial TTC tap.
When transferring to another MiWay or York Region Transit bus, repeat the tapping process with your original payment method within the transfer window.
Again, your tapped card serves as evidence of payment.
The Essence of the One Fare Program
In essence, the Ontario Government’s One Fare Program eliminates redundant fares for commuters navigating between the TTC, GO Transit, Brampton Transit, Durham Region Transit, MiWay, and York Region Transit. This streamlined approach promises greater convenience and affordability for passengers across the region.
Eligibility and Accessibility
Who can benefit from the Ontario One Fare Program? This inclusive initiative is open to adults, teenagers, post-secondary students, and seniors utilizing a PRESTO card, PRESTO in Google Wallet, or debit/credit card while traveling within the TTC and participating in regional transit networks.
Securing Your PRESTO Card
For those looking to obtain a PRESTO card, they are readily available for $4 at TTC fare vending machines, select Shoppers Drug Mart locations, prestocard.ca, and the TTC’s Customer Service Centre. Additionally, customers with Android devices can opt for a virtual PRESTO card in their Google Wallet for convenient mobile payments. Free PRESTO cards are also available at designated Toronto Public Library branches, subject to availability.
Even though transfers are now free under the One Fare Program, tapping remains a crucial step in the process. Whether transitioning between agencies or exiting TTC-operated buses in Mississauga or York Region, ensure you tap your PRESTO card, PRESTO in Google Wallet, or debit/credit card to validate your fare and enjoy seamless travel within the transfer window.
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