OC Transpo Cuts 255 Bus Trips Amid Ongoing Service Challenges

OC Transpo has announced a temporary reduction of 255 bus trips from its daily schedule as the transit agency faces ongoing challenges with service reliability. This adjustment brings the total number of scheduled trips down to approximately 7,224 from an original 7,500. The decision, effective as of January 12, 2024, follows a comprehensive review aimed at prioritizing operational capabilities.

The agency’s struggles have been evident, particularly during the week of January 4, when it cancelled around 800 trips—roughly one in ten scheduled services. Although the cancellation rate improved slightly throughout the week, the agency maintained that many of these trips remained listed on the schedule. This prompted criticism from local officials, including River ward Councillor Riley Brockington, who suggested that OC Transpo should revise its schedule to better reflect the actual number of services it can reliably provide.

Addressing Reliability and Customer Concerns

According to OC Transpo, the agency requires around 520 buses to meet its weekday service demands. However, last week, it was only able to deploy approximately 467 buses. The recent cut of 255 trips is expected to reduce the operational requirement by about 20 buses. In a memo sent to city councillors, OC Transpo stated that this measure was taken in response to “customer concerns about unreliable trip planning information.”

The agency has outlined an action plan aimed at enhancing service in the upcoming weeks. This includes prioritizing maintenance work on its aging bus fleet and ramping up recruitment efforts for mechanics. OC Transpo has acknowledged that the challenges it faces stem largely from an outdated fleet and delays in procuring new electric buses, with additional units anticipated to arrive later this year.

Future Developments and Access to Information

OC Transpo has committed to improving its service delivery and ensuring that riders have access to accurate and timely information. Passengers can view the updated schedule through the agency’s travel planner, the Transit app, or by contacting customer service at 613-560-1000. As the agency works to address these operational challenges, it remains focused on restoring reliability and rebuilding passenger confidence in its services.