ACAT Meeting - October 30, 2025

Minutes of Meeting:

ACAT General Meeting

Meeting Date:

Thursday, October 30, 2025
1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Location:

Hybrid meeting via Teams

Motion:

Service Planning Subcommittee Renaming

Present:

Betty Rivington-Law, ACAT Chair
Lori Bailey, ACAT Vice-Chair
Sophie Petrillo, ACAT Vice-Chair
Tammy Adams
Debbie Gillespie, SPS Chair
Mei Hung
Maria Marin, CS Chair
Angela Marley
Lavarnan Mehavarnan
Karen Mootoo
Craig Nicol, DRS Chair
Lauri Sue Robertson, WTOS Chair
Chau Sheung Wong

Pool Members:

Oliva Darwin
Paul Manna
Nathaniel Tok

Absent:

Azim Lila
Frank Lockhart

TTC Representatives:

Michael Atlas, General Counsel
Lodon Hassan, Divisional Manager, Wheel-Trans Customer Service
Adrienne Isaac, Administrative Assistant, Wheel-Trans
Levenson Lincoln, Assistant Manager, Wheel-Trans Customer Service
David LoPresti, Manager, Contracted Taxi Services, Wheel-Trans
Sneha Madhuri, Communications Advisor, Corporate Communications
Dean Milton, Manager, Strategic Initiatives, Wheel-Trans
Cameron Penman, Head of Wheel-Trans
Jeff Short, Senior Planner – System Accessibility, Strategy & Foresight
Hung Hong, Facilities Project Manager, Wheel-Trans
Ross Visconti, Wheel-Trans Project Manager
Pam Watson, Manager of Transportation, Wheel-Trans
Natalie Francis, Manager, Planning and Policy, Wheel-Trans
Michelle Edwards, Engineering Technologist, Vehicle Programs
John Boucher, Manager, Lakeshore Garage, Wheel-Trans
Tawnia Politis, Events Specialist, Marking and Customer Experience
Michael Pimentel, Coordinator, Contracted Services, Wheel-Trans
Chetah Sutrisno, Systems Analyst, Information Technology Services
Warren Rupnarian, Accessibility Liaison for the TTC
Katrina Saint Martin, Project Coordinator, Vehicle Programs
Fiona Lee, Manager, Transit Enforcement Complaints, Human Rights and Investigations
Heather Brown, Director, Customer Experience, Marketing and Customer Experience
Matt Hagg, Manager, Customer Policy and Planning, Strategy & Foresight
Hasina Aimaq, Engagement Consultant, Access, Equity and Inclusion
May Liang, Policy Consultant, Access Equity and Inclusion
Laura Le Blanc, Manager, Special Events, Rewards and Recognition Programs
Paul Occhiogrosso, Retail & Parking Officer, Property, Planning And Development
Soha Ardestani, Chief Architect, Engineering

Items Discussed

1. Call to Order / Attendance
2. Land Acknowledgement
3. Declaration of Conflict of Interest
4. Approval of Agenda
5. Review and Approval of September 25, 2025, Minutes
6. Remarks from ACAT Chair
7. Remarks from TTC Executive
8. TTC Live Map – Chetah Sutrisno, Systems Analyst, Information Technology Services
9. Wheel-Trans Transformation Update – Cameron Penman, Head of Wheel-Trans
10. Outstanding Items
    a. Public Forum on Accessible Transit
11. Deputation: Nil
12. Incoming Correspondence:
    a. Kipling Station accessible parking – Jeff Short
13. Subcommittee Reports, Highlights and Updates
    - Communications
    - Design Review
    - Strategy and Planning
    - Wheel-Trans Operations (no meeting)
14. Other/New Business
15. Next Meeting – November 27, 2025
16. Adjournment

1. Call to Order/Attendance

Betty Rivington Law, ACAT Chair, called the meeting to order at 1:04 p.m. Attendance was taken.

2. Land Acknowledgement

Betty Rivington Law, ACAT Chair, read the Land Acknowledgement.

3. Declaration of Conflict of Interest

Nil.

4. Approval of Agenda

Agenda amended as follows:

Other/New Business: Metrolinx and platform width at new stations, Line 6 preview tour for ACAT and accessible consultation on Family of Services.

Motion to approve the agenda as amended: Lauri Sue Robertson

Seconded: Craig Nicol
Carried: Agenda approved.

5. Review and Approval of September 25, 2025 Minutes

Motion to approve the Minutes of September 25, 2025 as amended: Angela Marley
Seconded: Maria Marin
Carried: Approved.

6. Remarks from the ACAT Chair

Betty Rivington-Law, ACAT Chair, thanked everyone who participated in the TTC’s Public Forum on Accessible Transit, praising the strong turnout, thoughtful discussion, and team contributions. The ACAT Chair linked gratitude and resilience, both qualities shared by both ACAT’s efforts and the City’s Toronto Blue Jays, who just completed their baseball season.

Questions and Comments from the Committee

Nil.

7. Remarks from TTC Executive

Michael Atlas, TTC General Counsel, followed up on a previous question about liability coverage from members of ACAT, explaining that while TTC’s indemnity policy only applies to employees, a solution has been found through third-party Directors’ and Officers’ liability insurance. Arrangements are being made to add ACAT members to the TTC’s Director and Officer liability policy, ensuring they are covered for decisions made as part of their official ACAT duties. Each member will receive a package with a simple polling form and policy summary, confirming their inclusion and outlining the coverage details.

Questions and Comments from the Committee

A member asked if ACAT members would be added annually as people come and go off of ACAT, Michael Atlas explained that members would receive a letter annually, which they would have to fill out and return if they wanted to be covered under the policy.

A member asked if a person would be covered if a claim is made after the person has left ACAT, but the issue/claim incident was related to something that happened while they were on ACAT. Michael Atlas confirmed as long as it was related to ACAT duties and there was a policy in place at the time the claim incident occurred, the policy would continue to apply.

8. TTC Live Map

Chetah Sutrisno, Systems Analyst, reviewed a test link for a new real time service map. He demonstrated both desktop and mobile versions of an interactive TTC map designed to display real-time subway alerts and accessibility information. The current focus is on developing the subway component before expanding to include streetcar and bus routes. Key features include alerts for reduced accessibility, elevator and escalator outages, slow zones, and upcoming closures, along with detailed station information such as next train times and connecting routes. The mobile version mirrors desktop functionality, with a collapsible interface for easier navigation on smaller screens.

Questions and Comments from the Committee

A member asked if the escalator and elevator outages would also be shown on the map in real time. Chetah Sutrisno noted that the elevator and escalator outages would be shown on the map. The member asked if that information would be available for the bus drivers to inform passengers. Chetah Sutrisno explained that Transit Control did have that information.

A member commented that the pick-up/drop off areas should also include the accessible pick-up/drop off areas.

A member asked if the deactivated maps used for screen readers could be used by sighted people accompanying those with vision loss. Chetah Sutrisno confirmed that the map was still displayed on the screen and could be read by sighted individuals.

A member suggested including information about bus routes that have a change in direction as part of the bus route to avoid confusion for customers

A member asked how customers would access the map. Chetah Sutrisno explained TTC staff are working on how to access the map.

A member asked if the live map would be able to show crowd levels and if so, how that information would be rendered via screen readers. Chetah Sutrisno responded that it would be an announcement saying the bus and route is fully occupied and the time of arrival. Connecting routes would also be included in a search feature, but there would be no filter for the direction.

Heather Brown, Director of Customer Experience, noted that the site being used for the presentation was the staging environment and details would continue to evolve as the project neared completion. She noted the live map release would come with a communication plan, starting with digital channels, and moving forward from there. When the surface routes are also running, TTC staff would be reviewing and removing redundant pages.

A member asked if it is possible to send targeted alerts to drivers and riders on specific bus or streetcar routes affected by delays, rather than issuing system-wide notifications. They emphasized that timely, route-specific updates would be helpful for surface routes. Chetah Sutrisno confirmed the system has that capability but it is not currently enabled due to announcement issues. This will be reviewed by TTC staff to improve future notifications.

A member noted that during Operator recertification training, bus drivers requested the ability to know if accessibility features are not working at the station before arrival so they could inform passengers.

Chetah Sutrisno confirmed there was not yet a firm date for initial release of the live map.

A member suggested having the ability to dictate the information into the map would be helpful.

A member commented on the accessibility features of a mobile map application. While the app could show users their location and allow them to navigate by dragging on the map, that function poses challenges for people who have low vision. Chetah Sutrisno acknowledged these limitations. Also having the ability to make sure the list of items in the content box was navigable using a keyboard (arrow up option and click the link and press enter).

A member asked for clarification on the “you are here” function and if a user is limited to searching the surrounding area. For example, if a user is at Yonge-Bloor, could they search the Kennedy Station location. Chetah Sutrisno confirmed the ability to search other stations.

9. Wheel-Trans Transformation Update

Cameron Penman, Head of Wheel-Trans, thanked attendees for their participation in the annual TTC Forum on Accessible Transit and summarized key feedback received. Major issues included revising the Wheel-Trans no-show policy to consider ride volume, improving customer service and accessibility in contracted taxis, aligning Wheel-Trans Customer Service hours with conventional TTC hours, and enhancing the mobile app’s accessibility. Additional concerns included building accessibility, ride comfort on Wheel-Trans vehicles, and updates on ongoing projects such as electric vehicle pilots, new technology systems, and continued registration progress, with plans to integrate that feedback into upcoming management goals and actions.

TTC staff continue to work towards the new Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) system, a successful bidder has been selected and the name of the successful bidder will be released once the contract has been finalized. The successful contractor for the new Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system, used in Wheel-Trans, has also been chosen and both are in contract negotiation. The electric sedan pilot project Request for Proposal will be issued shortly.

Eligibility re-registrations of Wheel-Trans Legacy customers continue to progress successfully. Almost 1000 customers have re-registered in 2025, with approximately 1,700 active customers remaining. Almost all Accessible Taxis now have “Where Is My Ride” capability, including most Beck Accessible Taxis, with the remaining seven vehicles were being worked on for onboarding. Sedan vehicles will start being integrated into the system in the coming months.

Questions and Comments from the Committee

A member asked how family members notify Wheel-Trans about a customer who has passed away. Cameron Penman explained if a rider does not use the system for one year, they are deactivated, family members are not required to do anything. However, family can notify Wheel-Trans Customer Service by phone, fax, mail or email.

A member highlighted the importance of staff commendations, noting a particularly heartfelt story shared at the Public Forum. Levenson Lincoln, Assistant Manager for Wheel-Trans, confirmed that commendations had been added to the monthly reporting discussed in the Wheel-Trans Operations Subcommittee meetings and would be highlighted over the next few months. It also shines a light on the connection that operators have with customers.

10. Outstanding Items

a. Annual TTC Forum on Accessible Transit

Members congratulated TTC staff on organizing a successful event and praised the passionate contributions from participants. One member highlighted the need for better venue flow and suggested that event staff receive more accessibility training. They also proposed a brief pre-forum slideshow showing how past public feedback has led to service improvements.

A member raised concerns about the timing of the event overlapping with dinner hours. TTC staff explained that the schedule depends on venue availability and aims to balance accessibility for all attendees.

Members commended the volunteers assisting at the event but noted that help was limited when exiting the event. Suggestions included reinstating ACAT’s review of the event webpage before launch to address accessibility issues for screen reader users.
Additional feedback encouraged members to advocate for increased TTC funding through their local Members of Provincial Parliament A member commended Wheel-Trans on the coordination of Wheel-Trans departures.

b. ACAT Milestones Presentation

The ACAT milestones PowerPoint presentation prepared by ACAT member, Debbie Gillespie, shown at the ACAT table at the Public Forum on Accessible Transit, was presented to members.

10. Deputation

Nil.

11. Incoming Correspondence

a. Kipling Station Accessible Parking

Jeff Short, Senior Planner – System Accessibility, discussed a concern raised by a customer about difficulty accessing accessible parking in the paid lot at Kipling Station. The customer suggested using the Passenger Pick Up and Drop Off (PPUDO) accessible parking spots to reduce walking distance. Jeff Short discussed that the TTC is investigating converting two of the three accessible spaces in the PPUDO area into paid full-day spots to improve accessibility, while reducing misuse. That approach, similar to one at Sheppard West Station, aimed to increase accessible parking availability faster than modifying the existing paid lot.

12. Subcommittee Reports, Highlights and Updates

Communications Subcommittee (CS)

Maria Marin, CS Chair, gave a summary of the meeting held on October 9, 2025.

Chetah Sutrisno presented a new real-time TTC service map showing subway alerts, accessibility updates, and station information on both desktop and mobile platforms, with plans to expand to buses and streetcars. Subcommittee members suggested improvements, including clearer labelling, screen reader testing, user feedback for accessibility, and integrating Wheel Trans information. The map was scheduled for public release on October 24, 2025, with additional transit modes to be added later.

Other topics discussed included clarifying blue stop request buttons that alert Operators of accessibility service need, improving survey accessibility with offline options, preparing informational resources for the opening of the LRT lines, and updating bus route change notifications. Members emphasized the importance of accurate communication, accessibility, and user testing in all initiatives.

CS Meeting Highlights:

• Real-time TTC service map unveiling
• Survey accessibility
• Line 5 and Line 6 informational page

Questions and Comments from the Committee

Nil.

The next CS meeting is scheduled for November 6, 2025.

Design Review Subcommittee (DRS)

Craig Nicol, DRS Chair, gave a summary of the meeting held October 14, 2025.

Jeff Short presented updates on the Yonge North Subway Extension (YNSE), highlighting the Royal Orchard and Clark Station Reference Concept Designs, which demonstrate feasibility, accessibility, and integration with TTC and Metrolinx design standards. Both stations will include universal design features such as multiple elevators, accessible fare gates, and tactile wayfinding. Subcommittee members provided feedback about accessible pick-up and drop-off areas, Wheel-Trans stops, ramp surfaces, corridor widths, areas of refuge, and emergency exits, which staff agreed to take back for review. Additional discussions included the need for consistent Designated Waiting Areas (DWAs), mechanical room door orientation so that doors do not open out onto the platform, and ensuring future construction accommodates platform edge doors for accessibility and safety.

DRS Meeting Highlights:

• Yonge North Subway Extension (YNSE), highlighting the Royal Orchard and Clark Station Reference Concept Designs.
• Update on outstanding items including the platform edge doors discussion.

The next DRS meeting is scheduled for November 10, 2025.

Questions and Comments from the Committee

Nil.

Strategy and Planning Subcommittee (SPS)

Debbie Gillespie, SPS Chair, provided a summary of the SPS meeting held on October 21, 2025.

Chris DiTommaso and Mike Macas presented on the functions and procedures related to activating push buttons in TTC streetcars and buses. On streetcars, red buttons control doors and stop requests, blue buttons request accessibility assistance or ramp deployment, and yellow intercom buttons allow communication with the operator. Members provided feedback about button placement and intercom label messaging. On some of the new buses, red and blue stop request buttons include braille markings and distinct chimes (one for red, two for blue). Other accessibility improvements include buttons installed on the underside of flip-down seats, and clearer icons. Members recommended consistent button placement, raised accessibility pictograms on blue buttons, and improved labelling to encourage proper use and ensure accessibility across all vehicles.

SPS Meeting Highlights:

• Streetcars: Red, blue, and yellow buttons serve distinct functions and members recommended clearer labelling and consistent placement.
• Buses: Updated red and blue stop request buttons and suggestions for raised icons.

The next meeting is scheduled for November 18, 2025.

Questions and Comments from the Committee

A member asked if there was a procedure for using the yellow buttons and if the stop requests go to the bus operators. Would that information be provided to ACAT members? Debbie Gillespie answered that staff are still working on this.

Wheel-Trans Operations Subcommittee (WTOS)

No meeting held in October 2025. The next meeting is scheduled for November 12, 2025.

13. Other/New Business

a. Gap Between Policy and Practice in Bus Training

A member who participates in Bus Operator Recertification Training sessions regularly suggested there is a significant gap between what was taught and what drivers believe or practice. Despite trainers confirming policies, such as allowing passengers with disabilities to wait for another bus if the first bus was full, many drivers are skeptical and resist these rules. The member suggested that senior management staff, attend training sessions to better understand drivers’ perceptions and the realities on the ground and to help align policy, training, and actual practice.

b. Metrolinx and Platform Width

A member raised concerns regarding Metrolinx platform widths on the Scarborough Subway Extension and Yonge North Subway Extension, noting that some platforms, currently around 2.6 metres, could fall below Ontario Building Code requirements if platform edge doors are installed. TTC staff have struggled to get Metrolinx to adjust the designs, and discussions with DRS have not resolved the issue. Soha Ardestani, Lead Architect, confirmed that TTC staff do not support the reduced widths and have requested design variances to ensure adequate platform space and egress capacity.

c. Line 6 Preview Tour

Jeff Short shared that a Line 6 preview tour for ACAT members is tentatively scheduled for November 10, 2025. He will send an email to ACAT members with further details, and will ask that any interested members inform him as soon as possible.

d. Family of Services Public Consultations

A member noted that TTC shared information about the consultations late, limiting time for public input, and suggested ACAT should have been consulted in advance because the topic directly relates to accessibility. They expressed concern that accessibility was being absorbed into broader inclusion, diversity, and equity initiatives, and emphasized that accessibility must remain a distinct focus to ensure the system was usable for all. The member suggested ACAT should encourage the TTC CEO to explicitly include accessibility in TTC communications.

14. Next Meeting

Next ACAT General Meeting: Thursday, November 27, 2025 at 1:00 p.m.

15. Adjournment

Meeting adjourned at 3:30 p.m. on a motion by Craig Nicol.

Cindy Edwards
Recording Secretary