In the Ottawa mayoral election campaign, transit has once again become a focal point as Mark Sutcliffe unveils a new transit plan aimed at enhancing reliability and affordability. While Sutcliffe touts his plan as a means to improve transit services, his opponents criticize it as either too conservative, risky, or overly optimistic.
Sutcliffe had previously announced his intention to reduce the cost of a monthly adult transit pass from $138.50 to $95. However, he recently unveiled a more comprehensive strategy that includes additional affordability initiatives such as implementing a $10 daily fare cap and a two-hour transfer window to prevent double charges for single trips.
During a media event at Terry Fox station in Kanata, Sutcliffe emphasized that his plan aims to make transit faster, more dependable, and more cost-effective. He also pledged to enhance bus services by reintroducing express routes, procuring 200 extra buses by 2030, and recruiting 250 new drivers and mechanics. Additionally, he vowed to expedite the development of bus rapid transit corridors along Baseline and Blair roads, as well as in Orléans, Barrhaven, and Cumberland.
Furthermore, Sutcliffe committed to initiating efforts to secure federal and provincial funding for Stage 3 of the LRT to Kanata, Stittsville, and Barrhaven if re-elected, a promise he had made in 2022 but has yet to fulfill. He also outlined plans to enhance the cleanliness and safety of the transit system through the deployment of dedicated cleaning staff and additional special constables.
In response to Sutcliffe’s proposals, various mayoral candidates offered contrasting views. Jeff Leiper criticized the lack of reliability in the current transit system, emphasizing the importance of dependable service over cost reductions. Meanwhile, Neil Saravanamuttoo advocated for even lower fares, proposing $1 rides with a monthly cap of $40, asserting that bolder actions are required to address the transit system’s challenges.
While some candidates expressed concerns about the feasibility of funding the transit plan, Sutcliffe remained optimistic about securing financial support, particularly through the Metrolinx deal. He defended his track record on transit, highlighting significant investments in OC Transpo and the successful launch of Lines 2 and 4, as well as the introduction of an electric bus fleet to enhance service reliability.
Sutcliffe acknowledged the frustrations of passengers with the current state of transit and assured them of ongoing efforts to make improvements. He recognized the challenges but emphasized that progress is being made, urging patience and reaffirming his commitment to enhancing the transit system for the community.