O-Train Lines 2 & 4 begin a phased opening on January 6, 2025
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Big things are happening on Ottawa’s transit system!
Starting January 6, 2025, O-Train Lines 2 and 4 will officially begin weekday passenger service, marking a major milestone in the O-Train South Extension project.
Lines 2 and 4 will open in three phases. To begin, the lines will offer service Monday to Friday and will expand in phases to Saturdays and Sundays in the following weeks. Each phase will last a minimum of two weeks. Throughout each phase, staff will assess the system to ensure it is running safely and reliably. This extension will transform the way we travel across the city, connecting to more neighbourhoods, and even bringing the O-Train to the Ottawa International Airport.
We provided a formal update on the launch plans for Lines 2 and 4 back in April 2024, but so much progress has happened since then. The Next Stop Blog is here to bring you up to speed on what's coming with this new service, including the phased opening details, parallel service, trip planning information, and more!
The O-Train South extension will take light rail in Ottawa to new communities. Line 2 will extend south from Bayview Station all the way to Limebank Station in Riverside South, while Line 4 will introduce a direct link from South Keys Station to the Ottawa International Airport, connecting visitors to the O-Train network.
Here are some highlights:
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Line 2 adds 11 new stations and opens up new connections for residents across the city, including service to Carleton University. Plus, thousands of free Park & Ride spaces at Greenboro, Leitrim, and Bowesville stations mean you can park your car and ride the train.
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Line 4 will provide a direct connection to the Ottawa International Airport’s departures level from South Keys Station. Now, whether you're catching a flight or picking someone up, you’ll be able to ride the rails in comfort.
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The new Stadler FLIRT trains on Line 2 can carry up to 420 passengers, and the Alstom LINT trains on Line 4 can carry up to 260 passengers. Line 2 platforms are double the previous size for easier and more comfortable boarding.
Phased launch
Lines 2 and 4 will open in three phases to the public with bus service running in parallel. This approach is based on lessons learned with Line 1. It also allows for staff training and gives time for customers to become familiar with the new system.
This means you can take your time and get used to the new travel options available. Initially, the lines will operate Monday to Friday but will expand service to six and then seven days a week in the following weeks.
Here’s a quick look at the anticipated timing for the phased launch:
- Monday, January 6, 2025: Weekday service starts, Monday to Friday.
- Minimum two weeks after opening: Service expands to six days a week, Monday to Saturday.
- Minimum two weeks after six-day service begins: Service expands to seven days a week, Monday to Sunday.
As we roll out Lines 2 and 4, we're committed to ensuring a smooth transition for all our customers. To make sure you stay connected, existing bus services will continue alongside the new lines, providing parallel bus service for customers.
- Parallel service for Lines 2 and 4 will be provided by B2, formerly known as Line 2 buses, and Routes 99 and 97.
- B2 will run daily until train service has proven to be reliable.
- Route 97 will continue to run to the Airport, providing service alongside Line 4 between South Keys and the Airport.
- Route 99 will continue to run its current route, providing service alongside Line 2 in the south, and will be adjusted to connect to Line 2 at Limebank Station once seven-day service begins.
This bus service will be available for customers every day of the week for an extended period following the opening of Lines 2 and 4 and can be used by customers in the event of a service disruption. This approach reflects key lessons learned and recommendations from the Public Inquiry. In the event of train service disruptions, these buses will be there to keep you moving.
What about New ways to bus ?
Bus routes near or along O-Train Lines 2 & 4 will continue to operate on their existing routes, adding a stop to the nearest O-Train station where appropriate.
Starting on Sunday, December 22, Routes 74, 198, 278 and 406 will be extended to connect to Line 2 at Limebank Station, in anticipation of the opening. In the spring of 2025, many routes across the city will see significant changes as part of New Ways to Bus.
You can learn more about these future network changes by visiting octranspo.com/newwaystobus.
With the opening of O-Train Lines 2 & 4, Ottawa's public transit system is entering an exciting new phase. The O-Train South Extension brings improved service, bigger platforms and trains, and more accessibility for residents and visitors. Whether you’re commuting to work, travelling out of town, or connecting to new parts the city, the expanded O-Train network will help you get around Ottawa.
