Transit Committee receives updates on work to restore Line 1 capacity and on the zero-emission bus program

The Transit Committee was provided an update on the work to restore O-Train Line 1 capacity, as well as a status of the zero-emission bus program, a new bus-seat pilot program and key performance indicators. 

The Committee heard that OC Transpo has been working since January to build a containment plan with Rideau Transit Group (RTG) and Alstom. Incremental progress has been made on finalizing the containment plan, and it is focused on continuing the initial containment measures, implementing a condition monitoring system, replacing the cartridge bearing assemblies (CBAs) on the fleet, and ongoing technical analysis and monitoring of the CBAs.

OC Transpo confirmed that every effort is being made to accelerate this work safely. Based on current information, Line 1 capacity will continue to increase and may be fully restored by the end of May. The timing for the trial running of the East extension will continue to be evaluated based on increasing vehicle availability. 

OC Transpo provided an update on the Zero Emission Bus fleet and the progress being made on the program. There are now 109 zero-emission vehicles in Ottawa and 85 are commissioned for service. The installation of charging infrastructure continues, with 68 chargers available for operations and 36 currently in commissioning. To date, more than two million kilometres have been accumulated on the zero-emission vehicles, which has led to fuel savings of 930,000 litres of diesel and a reduction of 2,681 tonnes of carbon dioxide.

A new bus-seat pilot launched in early April. The Committee learned that a 40-foot bus has been equipped with new plastic seats. Other transit agencies have found that hard shell seats are easier to clean, reduce maintenance costs and increase durability. OC Transpo is seeking feedback from customers on their experience when riding the bus. Customers are encouraged to share their feedback through a survey on Engage Ottawa, by calling 613-560-5000, or by scanning the QR code displayed on the pilot bus. More information is available at octranspo.com.

The Committee learned that, in February 2026, O-Train and bus ridership was 5.4 million and the total ridership for the past 12 months is 69.7 million, which is 1.9 per cent higher than the previous 12-month period. 

Para Transpo ridership for March was 81,100. Total ridership over the past 12 months is 903,900, an increase of 4.9 per cent compared to the previous 12-month period.

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