Attention all TTC riders, you’ll soon be able to get full service in Toronto’s subway lines within the next few years. Rogers Communications plans to take over the current wireless network and bring 5G service to the entire subway system.
In an announcement, Rogers shared that it has entered into an agreement to purchase BAI Communications in Canada in an effort to “build a comprehensive and reliable 5G network to the entire TTC subway system.”
BAI Canada currently holds the exclusive rights to the TTC’s wireless network system for over a decade.
The TTC shared on Twitter that they are working with Rogers to “finalize the terms of a new contract” which will help their expansion plan.
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The #TTC is pleased that Rogers and BAI have entered an agreement that will expand 911 service and bring enhanced wireless connectivity to our system. We’re working with Rogers to finalize the terms of a new contract that will facilitate their multi-year network expansion plan.
— TTC Media Relations ???? (@TTCNewsroom) April 11, 2023
Not only is it important for riders to stay connected at all times, but according to Rogers, from a safety standpoint, it’s important to make sure that there is access to 911 services throughout the entire system.
TTC riders can call 911 only where cell connectivity is available so that means only on station platforms, concourses, and about 25% of the tunnels. Rogers aims to work quickly to fill these gaps.
“We know safety is top of mind for Torontonians. Residents and visitors expect wireless connectivity when they’re travelling on the TTC’s subway system,” said Ron McKenzie, Rogers’ Chief Technology and Information Officer.
“The agreement to acquire BAI Canada is a significant first step in modernizing and expanding the existing network to deliver enhanced 5G wireless service to millions of transit riders throughout the entire subway system in Canada’s largest city.”
But you’ll have to wait a while to see these changes come to flourish. The new 5G network build is expected to take about two years to complete due to “limited overnight construction windows available.”
Rogers expects to close this deal in the next two weeks.
So for now, we wait and see how this all plays out. Better late than never.
