Para Transpo service delays; fleet requiring maintenance
Posted Dec 21, 2024 01:35:59 PM.
Last Updated Dec 21, 2024 03:18:42 PM.
Riders of Para Transpo services have experienced delays over the past week and will continue to do so as the fleet undergoes much-needed maintenance.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Para Transpo ridership took a hit, postponing the replacement of the minibus fleet. But due to the age of the majority of the fleet, buses are now experiencing increased mechanical issues.
A memo from the transit service states that OC Transpo will continue to take all new bookings and deliver trips, and will reach out to customers to proactively find individual travel solutions where possible.
OC Transpo has been notifying customers of delays directly through phone calls, text messages and social media. Para Transpo customers are also encouraged to use the My Para Transpo app to track or cancel their trips,” Renée Amilcar, general manager of transit services, said in the memo. “We recognize that these service delays have an impact on our customers’ daily lives, and we appreciate their ongoing patience as we work to address this issue.”
A number of measures have been put in place to improve service levels including:
- Maximizing the use of external accessible taxi and contractor vans to support customer trips;
- Prioritizing Para Transpo minibuses for customers who cannot use contract taxis;
- Contacting customers by phone to inform of trip delays and advise them of the type of vehicle that will be provided for their trip;
- Reviewing trip planning and operator schedules to ensure efficiency;
- Daily meetings by the operations, fleet maintenance and customer service teams to plan service for the next day; and
- Increasing the number of minibuses undergoing maintenance at one time by leveraging external providers
In the 2025 transit budget, Ottawa City Council approved the purchase of new Para Transpo buses which will begin to arrive next year. The new buses will reduce maintenance requirements and stabilize the fleet to provide improved services for customers.
The maintenance is expected to take two weeks.
