A TTC entrance that has consistently been the site of fare evasion was finally blocked off this week by two police officers, after a Global News report highlighted the extent of the issue at the subway station.
At Eglinton subway station, transit riders are often seen entering from Duplex Avenue, where they are able to walk through the bus bay area and enter the fare-paid zone.
Whether it’s out of convenience or part of an effort to avoid paying the TTC’s $3.35 fare for adults, commuters often dodge the subway’s front entrance and enter the station scot-free.
However, according to a recent post from a local resident on a community Facebook page, two officers were seen standing outside of the station, while fare inspectors were present along the bus bay to redirect commuters.
A recent photo outside of the station shows two police officers standing near the bus bay.
According to the TTC, not paying your fare is illegal and could result in a fine of up to $425. Fare invasion includes illegal entry into a subway station through a bus bay, entering a fare gate without paying, boarding a bus or streetcar without paying, or using a fare type that you don’t qualify for.
A report by the transit agency’s audit risk and compliance department found that fare evasion cost the TTC nearly $124 million in 2023, which was double the $60.7 million losses experienced in 2018.
While it’s not clear yet if the TTC will be implementing a permanent solution to the fare evasion at Eglinton subway station, it looks like at least some transit riders are being deterred from entering from the bus bay in the meantime.
