Free TTC? Unbelievable!

Re Free transit is a lofty but worthy goal, Sept. 27

Much TTC criticism is totally unfair. I am a low-income senior who has bought a monthly pass regularly since getting rid of my car four years ago. Compared to car maintenance, oil, gas, engine checks, tires, insurance, parking fees and rude drivers, my $115 is actually a reasonable bargain!

I believe that TTC bus drivers in construction areas deserve medals for driving over wham, bang, crack and thump in the roads for five-hour, six-hour and even longer shifts. It would not surprise me if back and kidney problems increase greatly.

Most drivers are considerate in lowering buses to aid mothers with strollers, seniors with walkers and even large motorized wheelchairs are accommodated. A number of stations have lifts and clean washrooms, as well as coffee shops and newsstands. Many have attractive properties with well-kept gardens.

How anyone can suggest the TTC be free is unbelievable! Just where would the money to run it come from? Already the city has perpetual struggles in paying to keep up services. One could certainly not count on Premier Ford to help when he has abandoned an increased minimum wage, the new sex-education program for schools and various other advances.

I count my blessings in having TTC services and hope other travellers do, too.

Shirley Bush, Toronto