OC Transpo is projecting a $46 million deficit this year, adding fuel to the fire that transit riders are facing a near-guaranteed fare hike in 2026. This grim forecast is largely being fueled by lower ridership levels, coupled with no funding injections from upper levels of government. Stittsville councillor Glen Gower, who is also the Chair of Ottawa's Transit Committee, says the municipality was anticipating a deficit of $36 million for 2025, only for that real-time number to climb significantly higher. And while he confirms the City of Ottawa intends to use some stabilization reserves if the upper-governments don't come through, he warns it will be a while before these ridership numbers improve. Gower joins Kristy Cameron on today's Ottawa Now.

<p>OC Transpo is projecting a $46 million deficit this year, adding fuel to the fire that transit riders are facing a near-guaranteed fare hike in 2026. This grim forecast is largely being fueled by lower ridership levels, coupled with no funding injections from upper levels of government. Stittsville councillor Glen Gower, who is also the Chair of Ottawa's Transit Committee, says the municipality was anticipating a deficit of $36 million for 2025, only for that real-time number to climb significantly higher. And while he confirms the City of Ottawa intends to use some stabilization reserves if the upper-governments don't come through, he warns it will be a while before these ridership numbers improve. Gower joins Kristy Cameron on today's Ottawa Now.</p>