The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) and the San Joaquin Regional Transit District (RTD) are making an effort to improve access to free Wi-Fi on its systems
TTC
Access to free Wi-Fi on TTC subway platforms ended on Dec. 27, as the agency notes it moved away from TConnect because it was an old, unreliable network.
According to TTC, the free TConnect service in TTC subway stations has been declining in usage with poor performance while facing cybersecurity concerns and increasing costs. The agency is continuing to work with Rogers on building out a fast and secure 5G cellular service in tunnels.
The TTC is also looking into a pilot project that would provide free Wi-Fi at static locations like bus bays and platforms. The agency says an update report on that pilot will be presented to the TTC Board early this year. According to TTC, through the City’s ConnectTO program, those who rely on free public Wi-Fi have access at more than 100 locations, primarily at libraries and community centers.
TConnect launched in 2013 and is available only on subway platforms. It does not extend into the tunnels. TTC notes that based on current ridership and known usage of the network, less than three percent of TTC customers log in to it at any time.
San Joaquin RTD
San Joaquin RTD now offers free Wi-Fi on all RTD buses, including local, express, hopper and commuter routes. The agency says the new feature allows passengers to stay connected, work or enjoy entertainment during their commute.
“We’re thrilled to bring this enhancement to our riders,” said San Joaquin RTD CEO Alex Clifford. “Offering free Wi-Fi on all our buses is just one of the many ways we’re improving the public transit experience and ensuring that our services meet the evolving needs of our community.”
The agency says passengers can easily access the free Wi-Fi by connecting to "RTD-Connect" on their Wi-Fi-enabled mobile devices and using the password provided on the buses.
Brandon Lewis | Associate Editor
Brandon Lewis is a recent graduate of Kent State University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. Lewis is a former freelance editorial assistant at Vehicle Service Pros.com in Endeavor Business Media’s Vehicle Repair Group. Lewis brings his knowledge of web managing, copyediting and SEO practices to Mass Transit Magazine as an associate editor.
