Although the TTC has committed to keeping the subway in a “state of good repair,” this currently does not apply to Wilson station. Late last year, a drain backed up and flooding brought most of the station’s escalators to a halt. They’ve been motionless ever since.
While I don’t expect the TTC to temporarily deem Wilson in disrepair, I do expect the organization to tell riders why for months they have not been able to use at least four escalators in this sprawling transit complex. The work required to fix the problem is difficult and complex, but the only apparent communication Wilson users have received is in the form of temporary signs near the broken down escalators.
The posters are supposed to show the projected dates of completion, but these keep being extended. According to ttc.ca, one unit was back in service last week, with the remaining three scheduled for late April and May.
From a customer’s perspective, little work appears to be underway — feeding a general impression that the TTC considers escalator maintenance a low priority.
North York resident Tania Cassin thinks escalators are a major part of transit accessibility. After witnessing some fellow riders having a tough time on adjacent stairs, she started a mini-campaign to reach the TTC. She contacted the complaint service, local city Coun. Michael Feldman and TTC chair Adam Giambrone. Only the latter responded — with a form email saying staff would follow up. She also put up small stickers near the broken escalators.
Jack Lakey, the Toronto Star’s “Fixer,” reported on the problem in January, and was told by TTC the units would be repaired by “late February” — but there was no mention of a serious water problem.
I met with Cassin last week and we agreed to push for more answers — which started coming. The TTC provided me an extensive description of the underground work required, and I hope a special notice will be prepared for Wilson users.
Please see ttcupdates.com for a discussion about starting a Twitter account to report escalators that stop working. Of course, new technology won’t replace the need for basic good communication — including special notices at ttc.ca and in stations. Plus a complaint department that responds promptly to complaints.
TTC parking fees update
April 1 looms for those riders who park their cars at subway stations — that’s the day commuters must pay for the use of a parking spot before 3 p.m. TTC workers will also lose free parking perks — except at lesser-used lots, and only as long as these aren’t needed by customers. There’s a campaign against the fees at www.thepetitionsite.com.
