Your commute is about to get easier! uOttawa students, let me introduce you to Ottawa’s all new subway/streetcar system! Ottawa decided to begin work on their light rail transit (LRT) system beginning in 2013 (hence all the construction we’ve experienced). This is Ottawa’s biggest construction project since the Rideau Canal was built! You might have seen the ads on buses or around the city, but do you know what it’s actually all about? Here’s what you need to know about the LRT.
Where?
The LRT is being built in stages; stage 1 is called the Confederation Line. It will run from Tunney’s Pasture station to Blair station, with 13 stations in total. It is 12.5 kilometers in total, with 2.5 kilometers running underground through downtown Ottawa. At many of the stations outside the downtown core, you will be able to transfer to the existing bus routes. Stage 2 will extend south to Leitrim, east to Trim and west to Moodie, and will begin construction in 2019 with a goal of beginning operation in 2023.
When?
The LRT will operate every day during peak hours (depending on the day, those hours will change). The LRT is expected to come every 5 minutes and is expected to be more predictable than buses due to lack of traffic and weather-related issues.
What are the benefits of it?
The LRT was created to help reduce downtown traffic, especially in peak periods. The LRT will be able to accommodate 10,700 passengers per hour at peak capacity, with potential to grow to 18,000 in the future. It will take only 24 minutes to get from Tunney’s Pasture to Blair, as opposed to the current commute of up to an hour. It will also reduce carbon emissions, because it runs on zero emission electric trains, reducing Ottawa’s carbon dioxide product by 94,000 tons.
How will it work?
In order to board the train, you will scan your U-Pass or transit pass at the fare gates before entering the platform. You will not need to do it again when you exit, as the gates will open automatically. If you need to make a connection with a bus, there will be digital signs telling you where to go and what the expected departure time for the next bus is. There will also be signs showing when the next train is coming. At Hurdman, Tunney’s Pasture and Blair stations, there will be fare-paid zones, that will make transferring easy. At other stations, you will just need to tap your Presto or U-Pass again (like we do now when changing buses).
We’re so excited for Ottawa to open the new LRT! Students, get ready for easier commutes & more predictable schedules! See you in 2018, LRT!