PRESTO, NO CHANGE-O: Metrolinx hands out Lake Ontario-themed transit cards

Metrolinx has introduced a special set of Lake Ontario-themed PRESTO cards, a limited-edition offering aimed at fostering local pride and honoring one of the province's most iconic landmarks. The PRESTO cards, adorned with a simple design showcasing water and a rising sun along with the phrase "Lake Ontario, Now and Always," were released on Tuesday at Toronto's Union Station.

Metrolinx spokesperson shared the agency's pride in operating bus and rail services along the shores of Lake Ontario, spanning from Oshawa to Niagara. The customer engagement event and the giveaway of the limited-edition PRESTO cards symbolize the deep affection Ontarians and Canadians hold for this historic Great Lake, a name that has been cherished for generations. Approximately 1,000 cards were handed out near the UP Express concourse on Tuesday, and all of them were claimed by eager commuters by the afternoon.

The launch of these cards coincides with heightened political discussions surrounding the lake's name. U.S. President Donald Trump instructed American agencies to refer to Lake Ontario as "Lake America," which sparked backlash from Canadian officials and citizens. In response, Ontario Premier Doug Ford unveiled a $25,000 blue sign on the shoreline, bearing the identical inscription.