Toronto is making it a little easier for families, young people and older residents to visit the Toronto Islands this August.
Ferry rides to Toronto Island Park will be free throughout the month for children, youth and seniors as a way to thank residents for speaking up about the future of the islands.
“For months, residents across our city spoke up and advocated for the future of the Toronto Islands,” Mayor Olivia Chow said.
“This is one small way we can say thank you, while making it easier for more families, young people and seniors to visit the Island and experience what makes it such a precious part of our city.”
The announcement follows a growing dispute over Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport and nearby public land.
Ontario passed Bill 110, the Building Billy Bishop Airport Act, allowing the province to expropriate city-owned property, including Little Norway Park and the entirety of the Toronto Islands. The legislation also removes the City of Toronto from the tripartite agreement that governs the airport.
Toronto city council on Thursday passed a resolution demanding that the province return the land by repealing Bill 110. Council is also calling on Ontario to restore the city’s role in the tripartite agreement.
The resolution specifically demands that the province “give back the City of Toronto’s land at Toronto Islands and Little Norway Park” and return Toronto to the airport’s governing agreement.
The move comes days after federal Transportation Minister Steven MacKinnon said Ottawa would not support provincial airport expansion plans that “infringe on treasured public spaces.”
Under the regular round-trip fare structure, youth between 15 and 19 and older adults aged 65 and over normally pay $6.15. Junior tickets for children aged two to 14 cost $4.51. Infants under two already ride for free.
The regular round-trip fare for adults between 20 and 64 is $9.57.
While the August offer removes the ticket cost for eligible riders, visitors should still plan for crowds. Toronto Island Park is a popular summer destination, and the city expects ferry service to be busy.
Passengers are encouraged to purchase their tickets online before arriving at the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. Online ticket holders can use an express lane to enter the terminal.
Timing may also make a difference. The busiest period for trips heading to the islands is typically between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Return trips to the city are generally busiest from 5 to 9 p.m.
The city is advising visitors to travel outside those peak periods where possible and to plan their trip before heading downtown.