A new fantasy transit map provides a glimpse of what the public transportation network could look like in the Toronto region in just a few decades.
The detailed map was created by Toronto resident Daniel Winkler, who is currently studying and preparing for a future co-op with the TTC. The transit map seeks to combine GO expansion projects and input from the public to provide a comprehensive look at what commuters in the GTA could expect if several projects follow through over the next several years.
Most of the stops included in the map are in the GO expansion list, Winkler explains, while other stops were based around pre-existing rail lines, such as the Kingston Subdivision to Port Hope. The trains to London were inspired by GO Transit service during the pandemic, which picked up much of the demand in the face of VIA train cuts.
“Many of the lines I added were already on pre-existing right-of-ways for rail, or following highways or building new lines,” Winkler said.
Got a bit exited with this fantasy map
byu/SIR-LORD-OF-THE-BOOP ingotransit
“A lot of the remote stops would only serve a few hundred or less a day, but it would mean more opportunities for developers to build.”
As for why he created the map, Winkler says he simply got “bored” and thought if others could make fantasy maps, then he was going to try and “make one for everyone.” It’s the first map he’s made for GO Transit, but he’s also made a copy of the TTC, as well as a test version for Niagara.
Winkler shared the first version of the map on Reddit, and the post quickly garnered over 200 upvotes and 100 comments.
“I would be so happy to see better service into Niagara. I do the the trip at least once a week from Fairview to Finch. Right now, it takes me 4 hours door to door for what would be a little over an hour’s drive. Hopefully, with the Confederation extension, things get a lot better,” one user wrote.
“This is my dream map living in South Niagara. What I would do to have easy regular access to Toronto and beyond,” another person said.
Winkler says most of the feedback suggested the removal of certain stations or altering where some lines ended or went.
“Others informed me some parts would barely be used. I did like this feedback as it has helped me work on my 2.0 version. I did take this feedback and cut stops, added bus lines to replace and the liking,” he told blogTO.
The second version of the map, which Winkler says he is looking to upload soon, includes many of the suggestions made on Reddit, as well as feedback from classmates.
