TTC CEO Andy Byford is pushing for all-door boarding on every Toronto streetcar route by January 2015. By implementing a proof-of-payment or POP system, the TTC would allow anyone carrying a Metropass, day pass, or transfer to enter via the rear doors, not just on Queen Street.

A report released earlier this week blamed lengthy loading and unloading times for the majority of delays on the King streetcar. Currently, all riders are forced to board through the front door, creating long queues during rush hour.

GO Transit currently uses a proof-of-payment system. On the TTC, riders would be able to board through the rear doors of any streetcar at any time, using a transfer, Metropass, or other physical proof of payment. Riders paying cash or token would still need to use the front door.

Fare payments would operate on an honour system, but fare inspectors would be expected to police riders. That doesn't seem to happen a whole lot at present (anecdotally speaking), so expects that this would pose a significant challenge. Rear door boarding could also help prevent bunching at the front of the streetcar.

Right now, all-door boarding is allowed only on the Queen streetcar during rush hour. The entire 510 Spadina line will switch to proof-of-payment on August 31 when the first of the new streetcars enters service.

POP was due to be gradually phased in with new streetcars, but if Byford gets his way, the system could be in place by Jan 1, 2015.

TTC board approval, which could come in about two weeks, is required.

Chris Bateman is a staff writer at theGentries. Follow him on Twitter at @chrisbateman.

Image: Jason Cook/theGentries Flickr pool.