Ottawa gets Additional Funding for Light Rail Transit Extension

Canada’s Public Transit System
A modern public transit system means shorter commute times, less air pollution, more time with family and friends, and stronger economic growth. Now is the time to invest in building new urban transit networks.
Ottawa’s LRT Extension
Last month, The Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, announced up to $1.09 billion in funding for the Ottawa Light Rail Transit (LRT) Stage 2 Project, which will better connect the east, west and south areas of Canada’s capital.
In addition to what was announced, over $66 million in approved federal funding through the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund has been provided for four projects related to Stage 2: $45M for early works and engineering, $20M for new light rail vehicles, $1.25M for design of a rail-to-rail grade separation, and $100K for consultation with Indigenous communities.
The Government of Canada provided up to $762 million for Stage 1 of the Ottawa Light Rail Transit Project.
LRT System in Sustainable Urban Mobility
With Ottawa’s population expected to grow to 1.14 million people over the next 15 years, it is important that the city’s public transit becomes more efficient and inclusive for residents and visitors. Stage 2 of this project will see an additional 38.8 kilometres of rail and 23 new stations added to Stage 1 of the light rail transit system currently under construction. This new stage of construction will begin in 2018.
When construction is completed in 2023, 70 per cent of Ottawa residents will live within five kilometres of light rail transit. In addition to reducing congestion, increasing ridership, and improving safety, the expansion will allow people from Orléans, Nepean, and South Ottawa to quickly and easily get around the city.
Additional information: Stage 2 expansion of Ottawa’s Light Rail Transit System
“The expansion of Ottawa’s light rail transit system will make it easier for residents and visitors alike to get around and experience everything our capital city has to offer. This expansion will help Canadians get to work and back home to their families on time, make our air cleaner, and create good, well-paying middle class jobs.”
— The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
Read More about Canada’s sustainable urban mobility initiative:
Budget 2017 Reveals Canadian Government’s Commitment in Sustainable Urban Mobility
Nova Bus Equips Montreal with its First Electric Buses
Ottawa’s Transportation Master Plan
SOURCE Canada’s Prime Minister’s Office