Commuting via public transportation in Ottawa will cost more in 2026, raising concerns that riders may question the value of the latest fare increase.
Effective January 1st, most transit fares experienced a 2.5% hike. The price for a single ride paid with a card increased from $4 to $4.10, while cash payments rose from $4.05 to $4.15.
Furthermore, the cost of an adult monthly fare rose from $135 to $138.50. Despite still being cost-effective for long journeys, the higher fares may discourage individuals from using OC Transpo for shorter trips, according to Laura Shantz from Ottawa Transit Riders.
Shantz emphasized that a $4.10 fare for a short local trip, such as going to a nearby grocery store, might seem steep compared to a 15-minute walk.
Comparing Ottawa to other major Canadian cities, Shantz pointed out that Calgary increased its ride fare from $3.80 to $4, while Edmonton raised cash fares from $3.50 to $3.75. Gatineau, Quebec, remains the most expensive with a cash ticket priced at $4.75.
Efforts to Increase Revenue
In November, the City Council approved the fare hikes to address OC Transpo’s ongoing revenue shortfall.
Shantz observed a decrease in transit usage compared to other transportation methods during the pandemic. However, she anticipates a shift when federal employees resume five-day office work schedules, leading to increased parking challenges.
Reliability Concerns
Noah Vineberg, president of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 279, expressed doubts that a single fare increase would significantly deter people from using public transit.
Vineberg highlighted that passengers might feel dissatisfied with the service if buses and trains consistently run late. He emphasized the importance of maintaining promised schedules to ensure riders receive their money’s worth.
While speaking against the fare hikes at the city’s transit committee, Vineberg suggested seeking additional funding from various government levels rather than burdening frustrated riders with all the costs.
In addition to the fare hike, 2026 brings other significant changes, including free transit for individuals under 18 during summers, holidays, and weekends. Furthermore, O-Train frequencies will increase during off-peak hours starting in April, following reductions in 2024.
These initiatives will be financed by anticipated savings from lower diesel prices.
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