Delivering Real-Time Passenger Information at Scale for One of the World's Largest Sporting Events
The Challenge
Hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026 represents a major operational challenge for the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC). With hundreds of thousands of visitors expected to travel across the city during the tournament, the transit authority needed to ensure that passengers could quickly access accurate, real-time information throughout their journey.
From daily commuters to international visitors unfamiliar with Toronto's transit network, riders would require clear guidance, service updates, connection information, and next-stop announcements to navigate the system efficiently.
To support this objective, the TTC selected the ITEStransit passenger information system to modernize passenger communications and strengthen the overall customer experience ahead of the tournament. The initiative aligns with the TTC's broader strategy to enhance wayfinding, signage, and passenger information systems in preparation for FIFA World Cup 2026.
The Solution
The project is built around the ITEStransit passenger information management platform, designed specifically for public transportation environments. Passenger information is delivered in real time on Papercast e-paper displays through the system integration provided by CP Stoneman.
The platform enables transit agencies to centrally manage and distribute real-time content across multiple display technologies and communication channels.
Using ITEStransit, the TTC can:
- Display upcoming stops and route information in real time.
- Communicate service changes and disruptions instantly.
- Provide transfer and connection information across the network.
- Display the occupancy rate
Why ITEStransit Stands Out for Major Transit Projects
ITESMEDIA delivers a proven solution for large-scale transit networks, supported by several key differentiators that set ITEStransit apart:
- Expertise in real-time passenger information.
- ISO 27001 cybersecurity certification.
- An accessible and responsive team of experts.
- A hardware-agnostic architecture.
Supporting a World-Class Transit Experience
For a major international event such as the FIFA World Cup, passenger information becomes as critical as transportation capacity itself.
Visitors often rely on visual guidance systems rather than local knowledge. By leveraging ITEStransit, the TTC can provide consistent information throughout the passenger journey, helping riders make informed decisions and reducing uncertainty during periods of exceptionally high demand.
Real-time passenger communications contribute to:
- Faster passenger flow.
- Reduced confusion during service changes.
- Improved accessibility.
- Better operational responsiveness.
- Enhanced rider satisfaction.
As the TTC increases service levels, introduces dedicated transportation initiatives, and expands wayfinding efforts for the tournament, reliable passenger information remains a key component of overall network performance.
Building on International Event Experience
The company previously contributed to mobility and passenger communication initiatives surrounding the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where clear, real-time communications played a crucial role in helping athletes, officials, and media personnel navigate complex transportation networks. The experience gained during Paris 2024 reinforced the importance of delivering accurate information at the right place and time, lessons that continue to shape the deployment of ITEStransit solutions for transit agencies preparing for global events.
Technology Partners working together
Working alongside industry-leading partners, the deployment combines Papercast's solar-powered e-paper displays, CP Stoneman's Systems Integration and the ITEStransit cloud-based content management platform from ITESMEDIA to provide sustainable, real-time passenger information across TTC stations and bus stops throughout Toronto.
The project was also featured in a CTV News Toronto report, highlighting the deployment of the TTC’s new passenger information solutions and their role in preparing the transit network for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Results
By deploying ITEStransit as part of its passenger information strategy, the TTC benefits from:
- Centralized management of passenger communications.
- Real-time information distribution across the network.
- Improved wayfinding and customer experience.
- Greater operational agility during major events.
- A scalable platform ready to support future transit initiatives.
As Toronto welcomes the world in 2026, ITEStransit helps deliver a seamless and reliable passenger experience across the transit network.