TTC subway riders will soon be able to use their cellular phones on the city's subway station platforms.
City officials were expected to debate the issue at a transit meeting on Wednesday.
"We're hoping to get a decision by the commission and that process can be underway shortly thereafter," said TTC chair Karen Stintz.
The TTC has already qualified three service providers and will put out a formal call for a proposal next week.
The project is expected to cost the cash-strapped transit company just $250,000 – the cost of a project team – with all other costs assumed by the successful bidder.
But TTC spokesman Brad Ross said the project must first overcome some technical issues.
"We are working with all of them to ensure that all of technical specifications are met, that there would not be any interference for example with our new signal system which is a radio based system," he said.
The project is expected to be completed by the end of next year.
Service will be limited to the platforms and not extended to the tunnels. However, Ross said some "bleeding" could result in spotty service between adjacent stations.
Still, transit riders are excited about the prospect of being better connected while waiting for a train.
"I could call my employer if I was running late because that kind of stuff always happens on the subway," said one rider.
The issue was first debated in early 2008 when the TTC issued a Request for Expression of Interest for subway station platforms only. But the plan saw little progress after the carriers determined that coverage limited to station platforms was not financially viable.
With a report from CTV Toronto's Natalie Johnson
