Transit users are speaking out against proposed route changes to OC Transpo that would modify or cut 100 bus routes beginning this fall.
The plan would cut some bus routes completely. Others will operate under shorter hours, and some routes will be combined.
Those most worried about the changes are seniors, shift workers, the disabled and young people.
"It would affect me a lot," said Tyler Smith, whose bus is slated to operate under reduced hours.
Smith takes Route 5. Bus service on the route currently ends at about midnight. Under the changes, it will stop at 8 p.m.
"Usually I work out at like six o'clock then I could come catch my bus. It would suck to walk home after," he said.
There is also special concern for bus riders who work at night and students who study late.
Seniors who take the bus to and from Carlingwood Shopping Centre will also have to adapt their habits.
Some bus riders say they might have to call a taxi or rely on friends if they want to get around town past 8 p.m.
The changes are part of a plan to save the city millions of dollars by making the bus system in Ottawa more efficient.
Routes on the chopping block include: 3, 32, 65, 103, 145, 153, 167, 169, 197, 306. Many others will be modified.
- View the proposed changes by route HERE
Although the plan calls for changes to several routes, city staff says 90 per cent of transit trips won't be affected.
Many who will see changes could have to walk further to catch a bus or they might see less frequent service during non-peak hours.
"We're optimizing the routes. We need to cut 20-ish million dollars so we're seeing that people are going to walk a bit more to the bus stop, but that's the impact of cuts," said Coun. Mathieu Fleury.
"The 8 p.m. (change) will be something I'm going to fight."
Public consultations on the route changes will begin next week. The shift in service is planned to begin in September. Click HERE for a list of public consultations.
With a report from CTV Ottawa's Stefan Keyes
