Speaking this morning at Davisville Station, TTC Chair Josh Colle announced a pilot project that will install bicycle repair facilities at 10 subway stations across Toronto. The $20,000 initiative will see the repair equipment installed at the selected stations within the next two days, with the full pilot project expected to be underway by the end of September.
TTC Chair Josh Colle announces the program, image by Stefan Novakovic
The repair stand at Davisville—representing one of the pilot project's two test designs—allows for a bicycle to be hoisted aloft and repaired using the attached tools. In addition to a bike pump and wheel chocks, the tools include a selection of wrenches, Allen keys, and screwdrivers (below), allowing for repairs ranging from tire changes to tune-ups.
The first bicycle repair station at Davisville Station, image by Stefan Novakovic
According to Colle, the TTC's "new bicycle repair facilities will attract new riders" serving as "another example of our commitment to customer service." Following the year-long pilot project, Colle stressed that the TTC hopes to eventually install the facilities at all of its stations, increasing ease of access for cyclists.
The first repair facilities will be installed at Bathurst, Downsview, Dupont, Finch, Kipling, Keele, Kennedy, Pape, Spadina, as well as Davisville. According to the TTC, the first stations were selected based on the frequency of bike trips in the area, the availability of bike parking, and the physical space at the station.
Chris Upfold (left) and Josh Colle try out the new equipment, image by Stefan Novakovic
Colle tested the equipment himself, along with TTC Deputy CEO and Chief Customer Officer Chris Upfold (above), while emphasizing the increasing popularity of cycling throughout the city as a driving force behind the new initiative. The project seeks to build on the 11% of transit users who already cycle to a TTC or GO Station. With over 50% of Torontonians now counting themselves as—at least—occasional cyclists, the proportion of commuters who incorporate cycling into their daily travel has been sharply increasing.
As urban lifestyles continue to evolve toward cycling, the TTC's commitment to expanding bicycle infrastructure represents a forward-looking initiative. We will continue our coverage as the pilot project develops, and long-term plans for the repair stations are finalized. TTC will be seeking public input on the program over the course of the year, and we will keep you updated as opportunities for public engagement emerge.
Enabled