OC Transpo LRT Repairs Continue After Freezing Rain Storm, Full Service Expected by Afternoon
Work continues on Thursday as OC Transpo's Line 1 remains closed east of the University of Ottawa station. This closure is necessary to address damages to the system's overhead power system caused by Wednesday's severe freezing rain storm.
Service Adjustments for Commuters
For travellers starting Thursday morning, OC Transpo has implemented several service adjustments to maintain transit operations during the repair period.
- Line 1 service will continue to operate in the western section between Tunney's Pasture and uOttawa stations.
- R1 bus service will operate between Blair and Lyon stations to provide alternative transportation.
- OC Transpo staff will be stationed at key locations to assist customers during their journeys.
Interim Transpo General Manager Troy Charter emphasized in a Wednesday evening update memo that the focus remains on recovering from the freezing rain storm and preparing for tomorrow's transit service.
Repair Progress and Timeline
Transpo anticipates that Line 1 service between Tunney's Pasture and Blair stations will be restored by the afternoon commute. However, the agency will continue providing updates to Council members and customers as work progresses.
A stopped train near Lees Station has already been removed from the tracks. Crews are now working to replace a short segment of damaged overhead wire, with this work expected to continue into Thursday.
Weather-Related Damage Assessment
On Wednesday, Transpo staff reported electrical "arcing" on trains operating between Hurdman and Lees stations. Charter informed councillors about this concerning development during his briefing.
Damage to the overhead catenary system—which powers the entire LRT network—was also reported in the same corridor. Preliminary assessments suggest this damage appears to be directly related to the severe weather conditions experienced during the freezing rain storm.
The combination of electrical arcing and physical damage to the power infrastructure necessitated the partial closure of Line 1 to ensure passenger safety while repairs are conducted.
