Expanding Ottawa’s transit network: Then and now

Exciting times are ahead for Ottawa's public transportation! The O-Train Extension is set to bring in a new era, offering enhanced convenience and accessibility for all commuters. But before we step into this bright future, let's take a quick trip down memory lane.

OC Transpo then

Back in the early 1980s, the city's Council made a groundbreaking decision to construct a Bus Rapid Transit-only roadway (BRT) through Ottawa's core. It was a game-changer, allowing passengers to zip through the city, avoiding pesky traffic jams and promoting public transit. The Transitway grew and expanded over the years, reaching areas like Nepean, Kanata, and Barrhaven, connecting more communities than ever.

OC Transpo now

Fast forward to today, and we're witnessing the transformation from BRT to O-Train. This exciting shift calls for some adjustments as the O-Train Extension tracks are being constructed. Part of the process includes the closure of the Transitway between Tunney's Pasture and Dominion stations, and Iris to Algonquin stations. Fear not, as OC Transpo has got you covered! Buses are being redirected along the newly extended Scott Street, ensuring uninterrupted service while the O-Train Extension takes shape.

The benefits of the O-Train Extension are significant. Not only will it offer increased capacity and faster commutes, but it also plays a vital role in reducing greenhouse gases, making our city greener and more sustainable. Moreover, this expansion will bring the advantages of the O-Train to even more communities, with approximately 75% of Ottawa residents now within just a short five-kilometer radius of an O-Train station.

Rest assured, the BRT corridor's main purpose remains unchanged – safely getting you across the downtown core. We're working hard to make this transition as smooth as possible, with excitement and reassurance, so you can look forward to an even better transit experience in Ottawa.

So, let's embrace this exciting transformation together, as we look forward to a future of efficient, accessible, and customer-focused public transportation with the O-Train. It's a journey that's sure to be smooth, convenient, and filled with excitement and reassurance for all riders!

Discover more about the O-Train Extension by delving into the project details, the new lines and how to identify them, and the system's design. Head over to our dedicated O-Train Extension website and get all the updates you need.  We're here to keep you informed every step of the way!

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