OC Transpo is apologizing for signs with wrong info about winter storm services in parts of city’s west end

OC Transpo is apologizing after signs displaying the wrong information about its winter storm operations were posted in various areas of Ottawa's west end. 

A photo of one of the sign spread on social media platforms saying that when a severe storm schedule is in effect, there would be no service on routes 161, 164, 168, 252, 256, 257, and some school routes.

Roughly 25 signs were posted at locations across Kanata North and Kanata South. 

OC Transpo took to social media to apologize, while posting the right information in a Twitter thread. 

It has come to our attention that some of our Severe Storm Schedule pilot signs posted in the west end have caused confusion.

We have made a mistake. Signs posted at 25 stops are incorrect and will be replaced today.

We do apologize. We know this is frustrating. 1/10

— OC Transpo (@OC_Transpo) January 25, 2023

OC Transpo said a severe storm pilot is implemented only where there is more than 31 centimetres (cm) of snow or other severe winter conditions are in the forecast and is not part of regular winter service. 

➡ All 600-series School Routes and any school trips on regular routes will not operate.

➡ Some routes such as 114, 141, and 161 will not operate. A complete list of which specific routes or stops may be affected is on our website: https://t.co/7ao5qKnhsB. 6/10

— OC Transpo (@OC_Transpo) January 25, 2023

OC Transpo said the plan replaces most articulated buses with 40-foot and double-decker buses that move better in the snow, and buses will run on a Saturday schedule if the storm falls on a weekday. All 600-series school routes and any school trips on regular routes will not operate. There will be no changes to Para Transpo and O-Train service during heavy snowstorms.

What does this mean for your Saturday – Sunday trips?

➡️ No change in schedule.

➡️ Some articulated buses will be replaced with 40-foot and double-decker buses. 7/10

— OC Transpo (@OC_Transpo) January 25, 2023

“This is a lesson learned from previous severe storms,” OC Transpo said. “It will allow us to deliver safe and more reliable service under severe conditions. We thank our customers for sharing their feedback with us on this pilot, it helps us improve our service.”