David Cardenas-Ochoa

This study examines the impact of Covid-19 on crime rates within the Toronto Transit Commission's (TTC) subway system. Using data from 2016 to 2022, this research analyzes crime patterns before and after the pandemic, drawing on different sources such as social services and the Ontario Marginalized Index to understand the socioeconomic factors surrounding each station. The study finds that crime tends to be concentrated in low to medium-ridership zones, a trend intensified by the pandemic. High-use stations, in contrast, showed a plateau in crime rates, suggesting a correlation between high passenger volumes and a reduction in criminal activity. The results demonstrate the TTC's challenges in attracting choice riders to low-ridership stations as they continue to experience high crime rates and increasing safety concerns. The study suggests an immediate, feasible action plan that can help increase ridership levels, choice riders, and safety near concerning subway stations. This research contributes to the broader discourse on public transit safety by highlighting the importance of addressing both actual and perceived threats to ridership. By implementing measures that adopt a safer environment across all stations, the TTC can work towards providing a more equitable and reliable transit system to all Torontonians.
Keywords: TTC, Crime, Crime Rates, Safety, Count Index, Trade Area Index, Social Services, Ontario Marginalized Index, Ridership,