Federal officials raise concerns about Ottawa transit capacity for return to office

Senior federal officials have expressed significant concern about the ability of Ottawa's public transit system to handle a major influx of commuters as the government implements a stricter return-to-office policy for public servants, according to an internal memo. The reliability of the city's bus and rail network was identified as a primary challenge cited by employees.

In early February, the government announced updated workplace requirements. Executives have been required to work in the office five days a week since May 4, while other employees eligible for hybrid work are expected to be onsite four days a week starting July 6. In preparation for this shift, Privy Council Clerk Michael Sabia and Deputy Clerk Isabelle Mondou met with Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe on February 19 to discuss the city's readiness.

The memo, prepared for Sabia ahead of that meeting, states that Public Services and Procurement Canada proactively engaged with the city because transit reliability was one of the most frequent concerns raised by federal employees in the National Capital Region. The two entities are now meeting regularly to coordinate analysis and planning, including transit demand...