In the ongoing Ottawa mayoral election race, transit has once again emerged as a key battleground as Mark Sutcliffe unveils a new transit proposal aimed at enhancing reliability and affordability. Sutcliffe, who had previously indicated his intention to reduce the cost of a monthly adult transit pass from $138.50 to $95, presented a comprehensive plan that includes additional cost-saving measures such as implementing a $10 daily fare cap and a two-hour transfer window to prevent overcharging for single trips.
During a press event at Terry Fox station in Kanata, Sutcliffe emphasized that his plan is designed to improve the speed, reliability, and affordability of the transit system, making it cleaner, safer, and more accessible. If re-elected, he pledged to enhance bus services by reintroducing express routes, procuring 200 extra buses by 2030, and hiring 250 new drivers and mechanics. Additionally, he committed to expediting the development of bus rapid transit routes along Baseline and Blair roads, as well as in Orléans, Barrhaven, and Cumberland.
Furthermore, Sutcliffe vowed to initiate efforts to secure federal and provincial funding for Stage 3 of the LRT to extend service to Kanata, Stittsville, and Barrhaven, a commitment he had previously made in 2022. He also outlined plans to enhance the cleanliness and safety of the transit system by deploying dedicated cleaning staff and increasing the presence of special constables.
Meanwhile, on the same day as Sutcliffe’s announcement, delays on the eastbound LRT line underscored ongoing challenges in the transit system. Mayoral candidate Jeff Leiper criticized Sutcliffe’s fare reduction initiative, emphasizing the need for a reliable transit service that meets passengers’ expectations. Another candidate, Neil Saravanamuttoo, proposed even more aggressive fare reductions, advocating for $1 rides with a monthly fare cap of $40.
While acknowledging the importance of affordability, Leiper expressed concerns about the feasibility of Sutcliffe’s $95 fare pledge, cautioning against reckless spending without concrete funding sources. Sutcliffe’s reliance on the potential Metrolinx deal to finance his transit proposals drew skepticism from other candidates, including Alex Lawson, who questioned the feasibility of implementing ambitious plans without guaranteed financial backing.
Despite the criticism, Sutcliffe remained optimistic about the Metrolinx deal and emphasized his track record of investment in OC Transpo and successful LRT expansions. He reassured passengers of ongoing efforts to address transit challenges, acknowledging their frustrations and underscoring the progress being made towards improving the system. Sutcliffe affirmed his commitment to delivering on his transit agenda and highlighted his experience and relationships as key assets in achieving positive outcomes for Ottawa’s transit network.