Ottawa says opening the eastern LRT extension by early 2026 is achievable, with a detailed update expected as testing delays continue.
City Confirms New Target for Delayed Extension
Ottawa’s transit leadership told city councillors this week that opening the long-delayed eastern LRT extension by early 2026 remains within reach. Interim OC Transpo general manager Troy Charter said the revised target, discussed during a municipal committee meeting, is “definitely achievable,” even as several key steps remain unfinished.
Updated Timeline Expected Within Weeks
Pressed by Beacon Hill–Cyrville Coun. Tim Tierney for an updated schedule, Charter confirmed that a full technical briefing will be delivered in the coming weeks. Officials said the update will outline current construction progress, testing results, and remaining work required to bring the 12.5-kilometre extension to Orléans into service.
Years of Delays Have Shifted Expectations
The Orléans link has faced multiple setbacks since being announced in 2017, when the project was originally slated to open in 2022. That timeline was later pushed to 2024, and then to late 2025. City officials now say early 2026 is the most realistic target, noting that earlier estimates depended on milestones that have yet to be met.
Deficiencies Found During Recent Testing
OC Transpo confirmed that the system has not yet reached substantial completion, citing deficiencies uncovered during recent testing and commissioning. Those issues must be resolved before the extension can enter the next phase—trial running, a mandatory 21-day period of rigorous operational testing required before public launch.
Next Steps Before Riders Can Board
Once substantial completion is achieved, the project must demonstrate consistent performance throughout trial running. Charter emphasized that the city will not open the line until it meets safety, reliability, and performance standards. “We’re not going to launch the system if it’s not ready,” he told councillors.
West Extension Still Targeting Late 2026
While the eastern segment remains the immediate focus, officials said the western LRT extension—connecting to Algonquin College and Moodie Drive—continues to aim for substantial completion toward the end of 2026. Rail construction director Richard Holder said work is progressing, though final timelines will depend on contractor performance and testing results.
