The Jerry Agar Show Party for Two - Inflation - Transit
Jan 19, 2026
Karen Stintz, former Toronto city councillor and transit advocate, joins Amanda Lang, CTV News chief financial correspondent, to discuss pressing urban and economic issues. Stintz argues for platform doors on the Ontario Line to enhance safety and reduce track intrusions. Lang highlights inflation's rise to 2.4% and the impacts of skyrocketing grocery prices amid supply issues. They also delve into the implications of public sector growth and city regulations that affect local communities, offering listeners a deep dive into transit troubles and economic realities.
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Build Platform Doors Into New Lines
- Platform screen doors prevent track incursions and should be built into new lines from the start.
- Retrofitting older stations is costly and technically difficult so timing matters for savings.
Cost Inflation Can Stall Transit Projects
- Large initial estimates for transit upgrades often balloon when agencies are reluctant to pursue projects.
- Projects get framed as unaffordable to stall them, then actual costs emerge later when pursued.
Track Incursions Are A Recurring Safety Issue
- Track incursions and suicides on transit occur regularly and fluctuate seasonally.
- Stintz introduced a direct help line at stations to provide immediate support for people in crisis.