Residents of Ottawa are voicing growing anxiety over the prospect of heavier traffic, rising personal expenses, and the loss of work-from-home flexibility. This comes as unconfirmed reports suggest the federal government is planning a full-scale return-to-office order for its public service employees.
Internal Document Sparks Commuter Concerns
Speculation intensified on Monday after a report by La Presse indicated it had viewed an internal Treasury Board document. The document allegedly outlines a plan to require all federal public servants to work from the office five days a week starting January 1, 2027. According to the report, executives would be required back full-time as early as next year, with other staff moving to a four-day in-office schedule by July.
While the Treasury Board has not officially confirmed these plans, the mere possibility has sent ripples of concern through the National Capital Region. Commuters, many of whom have adjusted to hybrid work models, now fear a significant disruption to their daily lives.
Personal and Financial Impacts on Residents
For many, a mandated return translates directly into longer commutes and higher costs. Amelie Hyson, who works for a company contracted by the public service, already commutes from Orléans to downtown Ottawa three days a week—a journey that takes one hour and 20 minutes each way. She has been told to expect more office days starting in January.
"It costs more money now that I’m in the office more," Hyson stated, highlighting the dual burden. With a five-year-old son, additional office days mean an extra $200 to $300 per month in childcare expenses. She worries that an influx of public servants will make her already lengthy commute even worse.
Strain on Public Transit and Infrastructure
The potential mass return is also raising questions about the capacity of Ottawa's public transit system. Kwasi Ofori, a resident who commutes daily for school and work, foresees crowded buses and trains. "It means more people on the train, more people on the buses in crowded spaces," he said. "You have students and workers, and it’s rush hour all at the same time with a massive demand on transportation."
Jovon Noel, a contractor who already works five days a week in an office, sees both sides of the debate. He appreciates the vibrancy of an office environment and understands the desire to revitalize downtown businesses. However, he also recognizes the efficiency and convenience of remote work for many. He hopes that if a full return is mandated, it will pressure OC Transpo to significantly improve service frequency and reliability on both LRT and bus lines to handle the increased passenger load.
The rumours have prompted public service unions to seek clarity from the government, while the city awaits an official announcement. For now, Ottawa commuters are left contemplating a future that may involve more time in traffic, higher household costs, and a major shift away from the work-life balance established in recent years.