The TTC continues to break ridership records, carrying 510 million transit users between Oct. 2 of this year and Oct. 3, 2011. The system is on track to carry 514 million riders by the end of this year and is projecting 528 million next year.

While there are several factors boosting transit use, gridlock is certainly one of them, said TTC spokesman Brad Ross.

“People recognize that public transit is less expensive and a more efficient way to get around the city depending on where you’re going,” he said.

“Generally we’re providing a level of service we’ve never provided before,” said Ross.

The TTC increased service on 77 subway, bus and streetcar routes this fall, including about 50 boosts to rush hour service. It promises to bump service again in the New Year to help cope with crowds.

But the service comes at a cost and at a time when the city’s $500 million annual transit subsidy remains flat, noted Ross. That’s why the TTC’s board has approved in principle a 5-cent fare increase on Jan. 1, with the exception of cash and children’s fares.

The TTC breached the 500 million ridership mark for the first time on Dec. 27, 2011. The system ended up carrying about 503 million in that calendar year.