How Toronto modernised passenger information ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026

Preparing for the world stage

As Canada welcomes millions of visitors for FIFA World Cup 2026, the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) accelerated its real-time passenger information to help residents and visitors access live travel updates across the city’s transit network.

Delivered by CP-Stoneman in partnership with Papercast and ITESMedia, the latest phase of the programme has introduced e-paper passenger information displays at bus stops and transit stations across the city. The deployment forms part of TTC’s wider strategy to improve the passenger experience, enhance accessibility and support more sustainable public transport infrastructure.

Providing live arrival information, service updates and disruption notices directly at the point of travel, the displays help passengers make more informed journey decisions before they board. For a city preparing to host one of the world’s largest sporting events, ensuring passengers can access reliable information quickly and easily will play an important role in keeping people moving.

David Barker, CEO of Papercast, comments: “Major international events place a global spotlight on how cities move people, creating a unique opportunity to accelerate investment in infrastructure that delivers lasting benefits for communities. While FIFA World Cup 2026 is an important milestone for Toronto, it’s encouraging to see innovative passenger information solutions helping create a more connected, accessible and future-ready transit network for the city for many years to come.”

Built for modern transit networks

Papercast’s e-paper technology has been designed specifically for the demands of transit environments. Powered by solar energy, the displays operate without the need for fixed power or communications infrastructure, enabling rapid deployment across the network. Their ultra-low-power design provides an environmentally responsible alternative to traditional digital signage, while remaining highly visible in all lighting conditions and continuing to display information even when power is unavailable.

Beyond the immediate preparations for FIFA World Cup 2026, the deployment reflects a broader trend across the transit sector. Agencies worldwide are looking for new ways to improve passenger communications while supporting sustainability objectives and reducing the complexity of managing large-scale information networks. E-paper technology is increasingly playing a role in helping operators achieve those goals.

The project represents another step in TTC’s ongoing investment in modern passenger information infrastructure, demonstrating how innovative technologies and strong partnerships can help create a better passenger experience both during major international events and long after the final whistle has blown.