March 10, 2023 - (Toronto, ON) Last week, the Toronto Parking Authority proposed a new pricing structure for Bike Share Toronto. The proposed new fee structure was announced just days before the TPA Board meeting, leaving little time for people to review the proposed changes.
Bike Share Toronto is an amazing program, and it is an integral part of meeting our city’s TransformTO goals of having 75% of all trips under 5km made by foot, transit, or bike by 2030. About 4.6 million people used the program in 2022 alone, representing a 70% increase in use since 2019.
We are thrilled that the new Bike Share Toronto pricing structure includes a low income pass, and are content with the modest price increase to the 30 and 45-minute annual memberships, but the introduction of a $.10 per minute fee for use of their e-bikes represents a big barrier to those faced with the lion’s share of transportation inequities.
For those commuting from the inner suburbs, the additional per minute usage fee will add $4.50 for a 45 min ride (in addition to the cost of connecting to the TTC, which adds another $3.35 for a one-way trip). I spoke to CityNews, along with Gig Workers United about the impact this will have on equity deserving communities.
Read how you can help us keep Bike Share Toronto affordable for all (full release) here.
