Toronto, Canada’s largest city and economic engine, continues to face growing pressure from chronic traffic congestion, long commute times, and a population that shows no signs of slowing down. With nearly 3 million residents in the city proper and over 6 million in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), the city’s infrastructure is straining to keep pace. One of the most promising solutions to this mounting urban challenge is expanding Toronto’s subway network, a move that has the potential to dramatically reduce road traffic, improve commute efficiency, and enhance overall quality of life.

The Traffic Problem in Toronto

Toronto drivers spend an average of 118 hours per year stuck in traffic, placing the city among the most congested in North America. The Gardiner Expressway and Don Valley Parkway, two key arteries, regularly grind to a halt during peak hours. Meanwhile, surface-level public transit (buses and streetcars) often gets caught in the same gridlock, leaving commuters frustrated and late.

The root cause? An over-reliance on personal vehicles and an underdeveloped high-capacity transit network, especially in underserved areas of the city’s east and north. This is where subway expansion becomes not just beneficial, but essential.

How Subway Expansion Helps Reduce Traffic

Shift from Cars to Public Transit

Expanding the subway network increases the accessibility and convenience of public transportation. When people have fast, frequent, and reliable          alternatives to driving, many will naturally switch to subways for their daily commute. This modal shift results in fewer cars on the road.

Faster Commutes Across the City
Subways bypass street traffic, offering consistent travel times regardless of weather or rush hour conditions. A well-connected network, like the, upcoming Ontario Line, Eglinton Crosstown (Line 5), and Scarborough Subway Extension, can drastically cut cross-town travel time.

Increased Capacity and Reach
Subways can transport tens of thousands of passengers per hour—far more than buses or even LRTs. The more areas that are served by subway, the      more people who can leave their cars at home.

 Economic and Environmental Benefits

Fewer vehicles on the road lead to reduced greenhouse gas emissions, cleaner air, and lower transportation costs for individuals and the city. Over          time, investment in subways also boosts local economies and increases property values around stations.

 Global Cities That Did It Right

Toronto is not alone in facing urban congestion. Many major cities have invested in subway systems to combat traffic—and have seen incredible success.
1. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo boasts one of the world’s most efficient and extensive subway networks, carrying over 8 million passengers daily. Despite being one of the largest cities globally, Tokyo maintains relatively smooth traffic, largely due to its excellent public transit options.

2. London, UK

The London Underground ("the Tube") serves over 270 stations across 11 lines, with daily ridership surpassing 5 million. Its far-reaching network allows commuters from suburbs and outskirts to access central London quickly and efficiently, reducing reliance on cars.

3. Seoul, South Korea

Seoul’s subway is affordable, ultra-connected, and integrates seamlessly with buses and national rail. The system’s coverage is so vast that nearly every part of the city is within walking distance of a station. Traffic in Seoul is still busy, but would be unmanageable without the subway.

4. New York City, USA

Despite aging infrastructure, NYC’s subway still provides over 3 million daily rides. Without it, Manhattan’s roads would be in complete gridlock.

Toronto’s Path Forward

With bold projects like the Ontario Line, Line 5 Eglinton, and the Yonge North Subway Extension already underway, Toronto is finally making major moves. However, success depends on execution, funding, and long-term political will. To fully benefit, the system must be well-integrated with other transit modes and reach into suburban areas where car dependency is highest.

 Conclusion

Expanding Toronto’s subway system is one of the most effective tools to reduce traffic congestion, support population growth, and meet the city’s climate goals. By learning from successful global transit models and making smart investments today, Toronto can build a future where getting across the city is faster, cleaner, and more sustainable, for everyone.