Para Transpo in Ottawa will be extending its operational hours on weekends, staying open until 2 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays starting from September 4 for a duration of one year. This service caters to individuals with disabilities who rely on Para Transpo due to limitations with other forms of public transportation. Typically, the service runs from 6 a.m. to around midnight daily.
This extension initiative, announced by Transit general manager Rick Leary in a recent memo, is part of the strategic plan he initiated upon assuming his role earlier in the year. It aligns with the broader service enhancements scheduled for late summer and fall. Leary highlighted that the extended hours will enable Para Transpo users to participate in more nighttime activities.
To avail of late-night trips, passengers must make reservations by calling 613-560-5000 a day in advance. There are plans in motion to introduce online booking options in the near future. Notably, trips to rural areas will conclude at 1:30 a.m.
Advocates have been pushing for such changes, emphasizing the need for round-the-clock weekend services to accommodate individuals who heavily rely on Para Transpo for social engagements during late hours. The pilot project aims to address these demands and enhance accessibility for all users.