Beginning Monday, January 8, 2024, OC Transpo will increase weekday capacity on O-Train Line 1 by returning to double-car train service on every trip. Trains will operate approximately every five to six minutes.
The return to double-car train weekday service is made possible by a new measure that adds pins to the restraining nut on the axle hubs. This was proposed by Rideau Transit Group (RTG) and Alstom at the September Transit Commission meeting and is expected to extend the life of the wheel hub assemblies on the vehicles while continuing to ensure the ongoing safe operation of the fleet.
RTG has completed analysis and testing of the nut pinning solution, and OC Transpo and Transportation Resource Associates (TRA) are satisfied that safety requirements have been met. Alstom and RTG are now applying it to the wheel hub assemblies on the trains. This added measure allows for the immediate return to double-car train service during weekdays on O-Train Line 1.
Single-car train service will continue to operate on weekends to meet current ridership levels.
For additional information please visit octranspo.com.
Quotes
I’m pleased to see the return of double-car train service. This brings us one step closer to delivering a level of service that our customers expect and deserve.
Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, City of Ottawa
This is great news for commuters who I know will appreciate the extra space on O-Train Line 1. We continue to work to improve service reliability for transit riders.
Councillor Glen Gower, Chair, Transit Commission
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Quick facts
- O-Train Line 1 is a 12.5-kilometre electric light-rail service that connects 13 stations from Tunney’s Pasture in the west to Blair in the east.
- Four of the 13 stations are underground.
- Each double-car train can move up to 600 passengers comfortably.
- Line 1 is served by 38 Alstom Citadis Spirit trains which have been designed to operate in both single car and double car configuration.
- Double-car train service will increase capacity during the week.
- Single-car train service will continue to operate on weekends.