The Public Transit Coalition (PTC) launched a campaign today with the message that privatizing the TTC would be a "disaster" for Toronto.

The "Keep TTC Public" campaign consists of a website, a TV ad that will air hundreds of times before October 25, print ads and a video, all touting the message that privatization won't fix what ails the TTC. (Maybe another museum will?)

The coalition says it spent months researching the effects of privatization on other cities' transit systems, and found the results "ranged from disappointing to disastrous for commuters and taxpayers."

"We felt it was really important for Torontonians to know the facts about privatization before they vote [in the municipal election]," said Dr. Franz Hartmann, Executive Director of the Toronto Environmental Alliance and PTC member.

The PTC sent each mayoral candidate a "survey" about his or her intentions for the TTC, and will assign and publish "Grades" on the Keep TTC Public website October 1. The survey contains hardball stumper questions such as, "Does every neighbourhood have a right to excellent, accessible public transit service?"

I, for one, can't wait for the responses.