In the ongoing Ottawa mayoral election race, transit has emerged as a major point of contention. Mark Sutcliffe has unveiled a comprehensive transit proposal aimed at enhancing the reliability and affordability of public transportation. Sutcliffe’s plan includes reducing the cost of a monthly adult transit pass to $95, introducing a $10 daily fare cap, and implementing a two-hour transfer window to prevent double charges for single trips.
During an event at Terry Fox station in Kanata, Sutcliffe emphasized that his initiative aims to not only improve the speed and reliability of transit but also make it more cost-effective and accessible. He pledged to enhance bus services by reintroducing express routes, acquiring 200 additional buses by 2030, and recruiting 250 new drivers and mechanics. Furthermore, he committed to expediting the development of bus rapid transit corridors along Baseline and Blair roads, as well as in Orléans, Barrhaven, and Cumberland.
Sutcliffe also assured that he would initiate efforts to secure federal and provincial funding for the third stage of the LRT to Kanata, Stittsville, and Barrhaven. In addition to these measures, he promised to enhance the cleanliness and safety of the transit system by deploying dedicated cleaning staff and increasing the number of special constables.
Meanwhile, other mayoral candidates have offered differing perspectives on Sutcliffe’s transit plan. Jeff Leiper criticized the perceived lack of reliability in the current transit service, emphasizing the importance of dependable transportation over cost reduction. Neil Saravanamuttoo proposed $1 rides with a $40 monthly fare cap, labeling Sutcliffe’s $95 pass as inadequate. Leiper expressed openness to modest fare increases to ensure the reliability of the transit system.
Sutcliffe’s funding strategy for his transit proposals, based on a potential Metrolinx deal, has drawn skepticism from some contenders like Alex Lawson, who raised concerns about relying on uncertain funding sources. Despite this, Sutcliffe remains optimistic about the provincial upload of the LRT, emphasizing his role in negotiating the deal and his commitment to seeing it through.
In defense of his transit record, Sutcliffe highlighted significant investments in OC Transpo, the successful launch of Lines 2 and 4, and the introduction of an electric bus fleet to enhance service reliability. Acknowledging ongoing challenges in the transit system, Sutcliffe assured passengers of continued efforts to improve the overall transit experience and urged patience for the progress being made.