O-Train eastern extension expected to open to transit riders by end of 2025, staff say

An O-Train on Line 1 travels toward Tunney's Pasture Station. (CTV News Ottawa)

Passengers will be riding the O-Train into Orléans by the end of the year, but there is no firm date on when the Line 1 extension will open as construction continues in Ottawa’s east end.

The Transit Committee received an update on construction on Stage 2 of the light rail transit system on Thursday, including work to extend Line 1 from Blair Station to Trim Station.

“Overall, we’re making good progress, but it’s important that we take our time and follow all the necessary steps to ensure we have a successful launch, as we recently experienced with Lines 2 and 4,” Richard Holder, director of rail construction, told councillors.

“Trial running is anticipated to begin in the fall and the system is projected to open to the public in Q4 2025.”

• Construction continues on O-Train East extension, with no timeline for opening to passengers

A presentation to councillors showed handover to the city is expected in the July to September period, with trial running and trial operations scheduled for October to December.

The pathway to passenger service includes five to 10 days of pre-trial running work, followed by a minimum 21 days of trial running. The pre-trial work and trial running will be conducted once OC Transpo and its partners reach substantial completion.

The trial running period will “exercise and evaluate the performance” of the system’s infrastructure, vehicles, operating and maintenance personnel and operating procedures, according to staff.

Coun. Tim Tierney said he’s not optimistic the LRT line will open by the end of this year.

“Very exciting news. Of course, promise less, deliver more,” Tierney joked.

“Definitely, towards the end of the year, we’ll see something - train testing will take place. Most likely it will be fare revenue, you’re saying probably Q4, I’m not going to say that. I’ve been spit-balling with some colleagues, I’m thinking it’s probably going to be February 2026. If it’s earlier, that’s gravy.”

Tierney calls the LRT a “game changer” for the east end.

A report for the Transit Committee says major activities to complete include software upgrades and operator training for the fleet, and staff say “work is progressing” on the training program, staffing and recruitment and maintenance readiness. The hiring of new Electric Rail Operators and  familiarization training are underway, and training on Stage 2 is expected to begin in late July.

The western extension of the O-Train Line 1 from Tunney’s Pasture to Moodie Drive and Algonquin College is expected to open to the public in 2027.