Ont. premier backing commitment to upload Ottawa LRT

Premier Doug Ford is backing his commitment to take over responsibility for the city’s light rail transit system. CTV’s Leah Larocque reports.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford made a stop in Ottawa Monday as part of the Future of Business Summit. On his schedule, a private meeting with Mayor Mark Sutcliffe to discuss the potential provincial takeover of the city’s troubled light rail transit system.

The visit began with a brief photo opportunity before Ford faced questions from reporters. Much of the media availability included scrutiny over the province’s controversial purchase of a private jet. The premier defended his decision, saying he’s listening to the public feedback.

“I heard loud and clear from the people that this was not the time to purchase a plane,” Ford told reporters.

But for many transit riders in Ottawa, the priority is clear: they want results on the city’s long-delayed and often unreliable light rail system.

The province has committed to “uploading” the LRT — meaning Queen’s Park would take over responsibility of the system from the city. Ford reiterated that pledge Monday but offered little in the way of specifics.

“We committed to it,” he said, adding the goal is to ease financial pressure on Ottawa taxpayers.

“Taking the burden off the backs of the people of Ottawa… we’re going to continue working with the mayor.”

Still, the premier provided no timeline or details on how negotiations are progressing.

Talks between the province and the city began in fall 2025, but updates have been scarce.

Mayor Sutcliffe has previously described the potential upload as a “game changer,” and has gone on record to say it could save taxpayers about $85 million dollars per year. The savings could help reduce Ottawa’s $52 million transit deficit from the city’s books.

Transit users say they’re watching closely and growing frustrated.

Emma Mackinley says repeated delays in opening the eastern extension and reduced train capacity have shaken her confidence in the system.

“They just kept pushing it back and back,” she said. “Now I’m like, is that ever going to happen?”

Mayor Sutcliffe was not made available to media before or after Monday’s meeting. He is expected to speak publicly Tuesday following an event where he will sit down with Ontario’s transportation minister and possibly offer the next update on negotiations.

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