Metrolinx says it did not hire private security to manage the number of e-bikes on board its trains despite recent speculation.
In a post on X, a commuter thanked GO Transit for stationing “security” to control the number of e-bikes embarking a train at Bloor GO station.
“Thank you @GOtransit for taking in the concerns and providing security to control the number of ebikes boarding the Kitchener line. Security personnel at Bloor GO ensured that the 2 bike per coach limit was strictly enforced. This made for a safer and more comfortable trip,” the person wrote.
David Shellnut, known as The Biking Lawyer on X, reshared the post criticizing the alleged implementation of private security.
“Ah yes private security, the equitable solution to all our problems. Listen I get there’s an issue here but success shouldn’t be declared until a solution includes the interests of these hard working folks,” Shellnut wrote.
However, a spokesperson for Metrolinx told Now Toronto that the individual referenced in the X post is a Metrolinx employee, not a hired security guard.
“Metrolinx has not hired private security to manage bikes on trains,” the spokesperson said.
Metrolinx says it has taken numerous steps in response to the increase in e-bikes on its trains, including deploying all six of its dedicated bike coaches to Kitchener line trips and scheduling additional trains to accommodate a higher volume of bikes and passengers.
It has also stationed additional staff along platforms whose role it is to enforce safety measures and disperse bikes evenly throughout the train and is running an education campaign for bike users.
“With these changes, there are currently 12 daily trips with bike coaches on the Kitchener line on weekdays (6 eastbound/6 westbound) and 20 trips on weekends (10 eastbound/10 westbound),” Metrolinx told Now Toronto.
“We continue to monitor travel patterns closely and are always taking steps to improve service for our customers,” it concluded.
Metrolinx’s rules for bringing your bike on the train, can be found here.
