Ottawa’s public transit system is at the center of a heated debate as city councillors and OC Transpo, the city’s transit service, clash over proposed bus route changes. The dispute centers on efforts to improve service reliability and reduce travel times, but not all councillors are on board with the proposed modifications.
The recent audit by Ottawa’s Auditor General Nathalie Gougeon has shed light on the tensions between OC Transpo and city councillors. The audit report highlights instances where councillors have vetoed changes to bus routes, despite OC Transpo’s efforts to enhance service efficiency. This has sparked a debate on whether councillors should have the authority to block such changes, especially when they are backed by public surveys and aimed at improving transit services.
Councillors vs. OC Transpo: The Power Struggle
The audit report points to a specific example where OC Transpo proposed redrawing a bus route to reduce stops and shorten travel distance. Although the change was supported by a public survey, it was ultimately blocked by the ward councillor. This raises questions about the balance of power between city councillors and transit professionals.
OC Transpo staff are supposed to have the authority to make these tweaks independently. However, the audit reveals that in practice, bus stop changes often require the approval of the ward councillor. This can lead to delays in implementing necessary improvements and make it challenging to demonstrate that OC Transpo is getting value for money.
The union representing OC Transpo drivers and mechanics, Amalgamated Transit Union 279, supports the audit’s recommendation to establish clear criteria for bus route changes. Noah Vineberg, the union’s president, argues that professionals should be allowed to do their jobs without constant interference from councillors.
The Councillors’ Perspective
Some councillors push back against the idea of limiting their input on transit decisions. They argue that they are responding to the needs of their residents, such as preserving bus stops near retirement homes. Bay ward Councillor Theresa Kavanagh emphasizes the importance of on-the-ground knowledge that councillors bring to the table.
Barrhaven West Councillor David Hill denies that councillors have a veto power over OC Transpo’s decisions. He cites an instance where he opposed the removal of parking on a street in his ward as part of the New Ways to Bus realignment, but the change was ultimately implemented. Hill argues that councillors should continue to have a say in transit decisions to ensure they reflect the needs of their constituents.
The Broader Issues with OC Transpo’s Scheduling
The audit also highlights broader issues with OC Transpo’s bus scheduling. It found dozens of routes where scheduled run times do not match actual travel times. The audit suggests that last year’s New Ways to Bus route changes were based on outdated data and were primarily driven by cost-cutting measures rather than a genuine effort to improve service.
OC Transpo’s General Manager Rick Leary acknowledges the scheduling issues and assures that the agency is taking steps to address them. He mentions that adjustments have already been made to seven routes, resulting in significant improvements to reliability. More changes are expected to be implemented by September, benefiting about half of all passengers.
The audit also raises concerns about OC Transpo’s decision to maintain routes that duplicate rail lines, such as the 105 from St-Laurent to the airport and the E1 between Blair and Lyon stations. These routes cost OC Transpo $5 million per year and raise questions about the efficiency of the transit system.
As the debate continues, it is clear that finding a balance between councillor input and professional expertise is crucial for improving Ottawa’s transit services. The outcome of this dispute will have significant implications for commuters and the future of public transportation in the city.
