Many people discouraged from going to office, applying for jobs in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area
Traffic congestion in Toronto has reached such severe levels that many residents are opting to stay home from work rather than face the commute, according to a new survey commissioned by the Toronto Region Board of Trade (TRBT).
“The findings highlight the profound impact congestion has on daily life and our economy, driving home the urgent need for progress.”
The poll, which surveyed 1,000 residents in June, found that 64 percent of respondents are reluctant to travel to work because of the city's traffic issues, and in fact are considering if they want to remain in the area.
“We’re steadily cementing our reputation as a place where you can’t get around,” said Giles Gherson, president and CEO of the Board of Trade.
“Gridlock is driving people’s decisions on whether to go to work, the store, a sporting event, or even continue to call Toronto home. This has a profound impact for our downtown recovery and investment in business and jobs.”
Young residents in particular (ages 18 to 34) are considering relocating outside the region due to traffic congestion.
Source: Ipsos
Toronto traffic crisis affecting employment and productivity
The TRBT’s statement noted that traffic congestion is a “significant barrier” to economic productivity by taking a toll on peoples’ work-life balance and professional efficiency.
Fifty-nine percent of respondents said they’re less productive at work because of the time they spend commuting. An even larger percentage (64%) said they’re reluctant to even attempt travelling to work, which the Board noted can lead to increased absenteeism rates.
The survey – conducted by Ipsos – also found that “unpredictable journeys” are a main concern for residents, with 61 percent saying that disrupted daily schedules are causing stress.
Further, the Board reported that 24 percent of residents said they feel discouraged from applying for jobs in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area, limiting the talent pool, hindering economic mobility, and business operations.
Colliers reported this month that Greater Toronto Area office vacancy rates rose to 12.6% in Q2, a new high since Q1 2020. Downtown vacancy rates peaked in Q2 at 13.7%, an increase of 170 basis points from Q1 and 280 from last year.
