OC Transpo
will be running replacement buses in place of some Line 1 service this weekend as it completes “performance testing” for the O-Train’s east extension.
The east extension is in the final phase of construction, and system testing is nearing completion, staff told the
transit committee.
Line 1 service will not be available to passengers between Tunney’s Pasture and Trim stations on Sept. 13 and 14.
OC Transpo
will run 23 trains during the performance testing with “multiple test scenarios” to determine whether the system can meet the required service levels.
“This exercise will help demonstrate that the newly integrated system can achieve peak service levels and is a critical milestone before the system can begin trial running, which is anticipated to take place this fall,” the city said in a statement.
The pre-trial running phase, expected to last five to ten days, and the 21-day trial running evaluation period will follow the performance testing and “substantial completion” phase.
Staff did not give the committee an estimated date to open the east extension to passengers, but said they are optimistic it will open by the end of 2025.
Staff said 27 of the 38 light rail vehicles (LRVs) for the Stage 2 fleet have been delivered and accepted by the city. Four additional vehicles are at various stages of testing and approvals, with the remaining seven in production or awaiting production.
Rail installation has been completed, meanwhile, in the west-end extension. The overhead catenary system, which will power the trains, is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
Test trains have operated on a section of track between the Corkstown yard maintenance and storage facility and Pinecrest Station.
