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The Toronto Sun has obtained documents stating that the Ford government is planning to sell naming rights to GO transit stations, as well as other associated spaces. The Sun states that "The province, via Metrolinx, is getting set to seek business partners interested in purchasing naming rights for GO Train stations, in-train quiet zones, bathrooms, waiting areas and more."
Naming rights are reportedly being explored over 5 to 10-year periods, with prices going from $50,000 to $500,000 per station per year, based on factors such as ridership. While the plan would require that existing station names be incorporated into corporate branding, full naming rights could be given for newly-built stations, which would apparently not require that the station's location be referenced in the name.
A 60-day consultation period commences today, where Metrolinx will explore interest in five GO stations; Whitby, Pickering, Exhibition, Clarkson, and Oakville.
The plan may prove controversial for public transit users, especially in the wake of recent Ford government cuts and meddling to transit funding and subsidies. Naming rights for transit stations have seen varying degrees of success in several American cities including Boston, Philadelphia, San Diego, and Las Vegas. Will they work in the Greater Toronto Area? Let us know what you think in the comments section below or in our dedicated thread.
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