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Updates: Line 2 & Line 4 Trial Running

The stages that make up our pathway to passenger service for Line 2 and Line 4

Overview

We’re getting closer to opening Lines 2 and 4, but before we do, we need to ensure that the system is safe and reliable for customers.

What is Trial Running?

Trial Running evaluates the rail system before it can open to the public.

This stage is designed to evaluate the system’s performance, ensure safety, and confirm reliability under real-life conditions.

Duration

The Trial Running phase lasts for at least 21 days. Trial running may be extended if achieving the on-time performance target of 98.5% requires more than 14 days.

On time performance is measured by assessing on-time departures at terminus stations for both Line 2 and 4. Trains must depart within 30 seconds of their scheduled time.

Why is it important?

Trial Running serves several critical purposes:

  • Performance validation: It ensures the system operates correctly.
  • Daily performance: It evaluates TransitNext’s on-time performance.

Looking for more information?

Learn all about our Trial Running process and what to expect during this evaluation.
Get to know the new lines extension with our interactive map, designed to help you explore and understand your new O-Train system.

Trial Running stages

FIRST STAGE |
Minimum 14 Days

Simulated passenger service

  • We will evaluate the system's on-time performance, measured by comparing the train arrival and departure times at terminus stations against what is scheduled, with no more than a 30 second buffer.
  • Late or missed departures are evaluated to determine if it was within TransitNext’s control. If they are, it will impact their daily performance results.
  • To graduate from this stage, we will need to see a minimum on-time performance of 98.5% over a 14-day rolling average.
  • This phase will continue past 14 days if the on-time performance of 98.5% is not met.

SECOND STAGE |
7 DAYS

Daily Operational and Maintenance Scenario Evaluations

  • In this stage, the system is tested for its response to various potential issues, including operational problems and service disruptions.
  • This ensures that the system can handle unexpected events efficiently.

When will Line 2 and Line 4 open?

We know customers are eager for the new service, and we're just as thrilled to bring the O-Train to Ottawa's southern communities. However, we must ensure quality and safety. We won’t launch until the system is thoroughly tested and reliable.

Trial Running reports

Stage 1: Simulated passenger service
Daily updates

Once Trial Running begins, you'll find daily reports for Monday through Friday, detailing TransitNext daily performance from the previous day. For more details on the daily reports, please read the terms of reference .

Stage 2: Daily Operational and Maintenance Scenario Evaluations
Daily updates

The second phase of Trial Running will focus on evaluating various operational and maintenance scenarios. This stage will last seven days, during which we’ll simulate various scenarios that could occur in real operations, such as operational issues and service disruptions.

Questions?

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