The 506 gets my vote for Most Improved Streetcar Line of 2009. This route is a riot and in recent times I've never had to wait more than 15 minutes for it. They've definitely made some improvements to it.
I get on and off at unpopular stops so I always get a seat even though it's a single car, and there are never any reeking groceries, SUV strollers or unruly drunks. However, if you're heading westbound prepare to overhear lots of domestic disputes and other dialogue from Jerry Springer Show hopefuls. It's all part of the 506 fun.
I've seen a driver calmly take control of a bearded, unruly, piss-drunk hobo by putting her finger to her lips and making a "shhh" motion. The woman was embarrassed and stayed quiet for most of the trip with minimal outbursts. Another time, the driver went out of his way to help several people get on and off the streetcar via the front and rear doors. Recently, when there was a stabbing at Gerrard/Broadview, the driver took many pains to explain the sudden detour to us and keep passengers updated on the safety situation. When I thanked him for his thorough updates, he said he loved his job and that the 506 was his favourite assignment. Do you think many TTC drivers like their jobs?
It's faster for me to take the 506 with Queen Street as my final destination than to take the 501 outright. Things get a bit hairy between University and Yonge (as expected) but otherwise it's a very swift ride with fewer accidents, cyclists and prick parking jobs than Queen.