Googling your fastest TTC route
Finding the quickest route using Toronto's public transportation system could soon become as easy as a Google search.
The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) and the popular Internet search engine are discussing the possibility of setting up a route-guide system for subway, bus and streetcar riders.
"It's time we moved into the 21st century so our customers can go online, flip in their destinations and starting point, and instantly know how to get there," TTC chairman Howard Moscoe told CTV News.
"That's the function TTC Info serves, only it's verbal. This would be an added feature."
Moscoe said the service would be free because Google earns its profits from advertising.
Riders are enthused about the initiative.
"The web technologies (Google's) using makes it very user friendly, and I can't imagine going back to the conventional way of looking things up with a paper map," one rider said.
"It's sometimes confusing for people," another rider added. "It's definitely a time saver."
Google has asked the TTC for station, schedule and route data.
The TTC will consider the offer while mulling over a proposal already on the table for the TTC to develop its own planner, which could cost about $2 million.
The commission will consider its options at its next meeting Wednesday afternoon.
Google is currently running a pilot program with the Portland, Ore., transit system.
