Ottawa’s long-anticipated transformation of its bus network, called “New Ways to Bus,” officially launches Sunday, marking the most extensive transit change in the city’s history. OC Transpo is reshaping routes to better align with post-pandemic ridership patterns and the expanded rail system, although it will result in a 3.5% reduction in overall service hours — about 74,000 fewer hours annually.
Most bus routes are being altered: some expanded, some reduced, and others eliminated. However, several routes including the 6, 14, 19, 21, 23, and others remain unchanged.
Transit officials say the overhaul is necessary to improve reliability and better serve changing travel needs. Still, many riders, such as public servant Nelly Desrosiers, expressed frustration, noting longer commutes and a lack of consideration for federal employees’ travel patterns. Riders like Roman Hebert also worry about new reliance on the Trillium Line, raising concerns over backup options during service disruptions.
Conversely, some, like Emily Veselovsky, see positives, appreciating more direct bus routes that reduce the need for train transfers.
City councillors, including Barrhaven East’s Wilson Lo, acknowledged the changes amount to service cuts, even as they emphasized the need for adaptation amid budget issues and an aging bus fleet. Ottawa’s ridership has remained lower than national trends since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Meanwhile, transit rider Jamie Brisson has launched a petition to maintain current routes until LRT extensions are operational, warning that new gaps will negatively affect people with mobility challenges.
Transit commission chair Glen Gower defended the overhaul as part of the “evolution” of the network and promised ongoing adjustments based on real-time feedback. OC Transpo will also offer free rides on May 3 and 4 to encourage residents to test the new system.
Source: Swifteradio.com
