mini-ethnography of infrastructure: the TTC

Using Star's (1999) ethnographic analytical framework, below I have analyzed the TTC.

Embeddedness: The TTC is part of Toronto, and is deeply embedded within the whole transportation system, which includes highways, roads, and trains. All modes of transportation, including the TTC and personal vehicles must share the established infrastructures.

Transparency: Once the system is established, people can readily use it, and it does not have to be reinvented for each user.

Reach or scope: The TTC has multiple modes of transport (bus, streetcar, subway), each travelling to different locations. Also present are phone lines to call for information, a website to consult, schedules posted on streets (for buses and streetcars).

Learned as part of membership: Newcomers using the TTC learn about the different routes, how to plan a trip, how to transfer, how to purchase fares, how to read routes and time schedules, etc. At first, the system as a whole can be overwhelming, but after a little experience using the system, customers are able to learn how to use the TTC.

Links with conventions of practice: It is known that one fare will get you one-way to your destination. Customers may use the subway and/or bus and/or streetcar on a single transfer or use multiple forms of one method. This differs, for example from the system in Hong Kong where the fare is measured by the distance travelled.

Embodiment of standards: Public transit is an essential service for many people as their sole means of transportation. The TTC has established standards that must be met with respect to operation of the system.

Built on an installed base: The TTC system as a whole was not created in one build. It is constantly being modified by the addition of new routes and subway lines. The system expands based on the needs of its users and the money available to expand the system.

Becomes visible upon breakdown: The TTC is constantly facing breakdowns on its modes of transport. When this happens, passengers experience service delays. The limitation of the system is visible when breakdowns happen (e.g. when a bus breakdown). When this happens, people realize the importance of the system within their daily lives and as part of the infrastructure of the city because of the experienced inconvenience that is normally taken for granted.

Is fixed in modular increments, not all at once or globally: Repairing the system takes time and must be properly planned because alternative plans for transportation need to be established while the infrastructure is being repaired. For example, the Spadina streetcar line was being repaired, and buses were used to replace the streetcars during the construction. The TTC needs to account for large expenditures such as repairs and replacement of vehicles, and will need to plan well in advance for such repairs.