LRT Phase 2 – O-Train East Extension
The O-Train East Extension is a significant milestone in Ottawa’s transit development, extending Line 1 from Blair Station to Trim Station. This 12.5-kilometre expansion introduces five new stations—Montréal, Jeanne d’Arc, Orléans Boulevard, Place d’Orléans, and Trim—enhancing accessibility for communities in Orléans, Blackburn Hamlet, and Beacon Hill.
Key Features:
Extended Reach: Line 1 now spans 25 km, providing seamless connections across the city.
Enhanced Connectivity: The extension offers direct access to key destinations such as Petrie Island, Shenkman Arts Centre, and Place d’Orléans Mall.
Integrated Transit: The new stations are strategically located in the highway median of Regional Road 174, ensuring efficient passenger flow and seamless connectivity.
Sustainable Infrastructure: The project includes the construction of multi-use pathways, bike lanes, and pedestrian bridges, promoting active transportation options.
The O-Train East Extension is designed to foster sustainable mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and support economic growth by improving transit access to various parts of the city. With the integration of modern infrastructure and thoughtful planning, this extension aims to enhance the daily commute for Ottawa residents.
Line 1 in Pictures
LRT Updates
Construction & Testing Progress
Final construction activities on the O-Train East Extension are nearing completion. Communication rooms and system parameters have been fully configured at all east-end stations, and communications systems testing is ongoing. All Traction Power Sub Stations (TPSS) and permanent station power have been energized, and elevators and escalators have now been certified by the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA).
Station occupancy is progressing well, with permits expected later this year. The City anticipates beginning trial running in fall 2025, with the public launch of the system projected for Q4 2025.
Train Control & System Integration
The Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) commissioning is well advanced. Boundary testing between Stage 1 and Stage 2 is complete, and system integration (including SCADA and communications systems) continues, primarily during overnight hours. Integration is overseen by the Systems Steering Committee, which includes representatives from the City of Ottawa, Rideau Transit Maintenance (RTM), Hitachi, and the East-West Connectors (EWC) construction team.
Rail Activation & Readiness
As part of the Rail Activation Management Program (RAMP), the project is progressing through testing and commissioning and nearing substantial completion. The 21-day trial running period will follow a pre-trial readiness phase to ensure full system performance and reliability. Safety certifications for infrastructure, operators, and maintainers are underway and are being overseen by an Independent Safety Assessor. Hiring and training of electric rail operators and controllers is also in progress.
OR-174 and Guideway Work
Phase 1 of work along OR-174 — including grading, drainage, paving, and landscaping — is underway and expected to be completed in Q2 2025. Phase 2, which includes final landscaping and paving, will begin after substantial completion. The OR-174 upload to the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) is also progressing and is not expected to impact LRT construction or operations.
Fleet & Transit Enhancements
OC Transpo is making key investments in the transit network alongside the LRT expansion:
11 pre-owned diesel buses will enter service in September.
26 new electric buses have already been delivered in 2025, with 37 more expected by the end of the year.
8 new Para Transpo minibuses are in service, with 50 more arriving by December 2025.
50 new diesel buses have also been purchased for future delivery in 2026 and 2027.
These upgrades will enhance overall reliability and support transit growth city-wide.
Non-Fare Revenue Strategy
OC Transpo is pursuing new revenue sources beyond transit fares through advertising, sponsorships, vending, retail leasing, and space rentals. In 2024, non-fare revenue accounted for approximately 2.5% of total revenue. The newly introduced strategy will guide expansion of these efforts over the next five years to support reinvestment in transit services.
Commitment to Safety
In response to the Coroner’s Inquest into the 2019 Westboro Station incident, OC Transpo has developed an action plan to address all safety-related recommendations. The City will provide a detailed update later this year, including implementation timelines and any associated budget needs.
Ridership & Performance Snapshot
5.9 million customer-trips were recorded on buses and O-Train in April 2025.
In May, service delivery was:
99.4% on O-Train Line 1
98.6% on Lines 2 and 4
98% on conventional buses
868,200 customer-trips have been taken on Para Transpo in the past 12 months.
Looking Ahead
As we move closer to opening the O-Train East Extension, OC Transpo remains focused on delivering a safe, efficient, and modern transit system. Final testing and trial running will ensure that the system meets all safety and performance standards before welcoming passengers later this year.