APTA recognizes Toronto Transit Commission as 'outstanding'

The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) has named the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) its "outstanding public transportation system" for 2017.

The award recognizes the Toronto agency's "transformative change" over the past five years, TTC officials said in a press release. The TTC's efforts have included developing a five-year plan aimed at putting customers first.

The plan featured a new station management model, customer charter, and fleet and infrastructure renewal programs.

The award winner is selected by transit system peers across North America. The TTC last received the honor in 1986.

"We set out to deliver a transit system that makes Toronto proud. This honor reflects the hard work we’ve done for our customers and the people of Toronto," said TTC Chief Executive Officer Andy Byford.

The TTC will be officially recognized at APTA's annual conference in fall.

By passenger volume, the TTC is North America's third largest transit system after New York City and Mexico City, according to the Toronto agency.