Improvements scheduled for O-Train

Ottawa – The award winning O-Train will soon get even better with the installation of an upgraded continuous welded rail track. The improvements will mean a smoother ride and less noise for passengers and residents. In order to complete the necessary work, the rail line will be closed from Saturday, June 7, to Sunday, June 22, inclusive. The O-Train line will also close at 10 p.m. starting Sunday, June 1, to allow for preparatory work.  

“It is an issue of short term pain for long term gain,” said Mayor Bob Chiarelli. “We have been taking advantage of an old CP rail line since we started the light rail project, and while we have invested in state of the art equipment, the track is not there yet. The upgrade to continuous welded rail will allow us to take that next step and provide a better light rail service that allows us to move closer to our goal of what we want light rail in Ottawa to be.” 

The upgrade involves replacing the current track with continuous welded rail. The improvements, which may allow for a faster trip in the future, will reduce the frequency of repairs, lower maintenance costs, lessen the chances of unplanned service disruptions due to track problems, and provide a more quiet and smooth ride for O-Train passengers.  

The upgrade amounts to a $2.2 million investment on behalf of transit riders. A June work schedule was selected because ridership is lower in the summer months. By making the upgrade now, the City hopes to minimize the inconvenience to Carleton University staff and students, and the numerous employees who work along the O-Train line. O-Train service is scheduled to resume on Monday, June 23.  

During the period in which the O-Train will not be running, a parallel bus service will be available. An O-Bus route will connect all five O-Train stations along streets parallel to the O-Train line, and will adhere to the train’s current schedule. Frequency of service will be the same as with the O-Train, although the trip will take a few minutes longer.  

In addition to the replacement O-Bus service, there are many alternative bus routes that will get passengers to their destinations. Transit customers can obtain trip-planning and scheduling information by calling 741-4390 or visiting www.octranspo.com.

The O-Train recently won the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Sustainable Communities Award. Other awards include the Canadian Urban Transit Association’s Corporate Innovation Award, and the American Public Works Association’s Project of the Year Award. 

The installation of continuous welded rail is the 30^th announcement in the City of Ottawa’s 100 in 200 Campaign. Every day, the City makes significant investments in the things that matter most to people, including public transit, green spaces, safety, public services and public health. This campaign, which continues until Thanksgiving 2003, highlights the scale and scope of these initiatives, and demonstrates how the City constantly works to make Ottawa a greener and better community for everyone. 

 For more information:       

Communications & Marketing
(613) 580-2450