Transportation

Preferred western LRT route protects Byron Linear Park and parkway

Ottawa – The preferred proposed route for the western extension of Ottawa’s light-rail service has been identified by the City of Ottawa after hearing community concerns over the possible loss of greenspace and disruption of west-end neighbourhoods.

“The Richmond Underground proposal would protect the Byron Linear Park and keep LRT off the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway, while giving neighbourhoods easy access to the Confederation Line,” 

Ottawa Light Rail Transit Project Contract – On Time and On Budget

Ottawa – Mayor Jim Watson, together with Premier Dalton McGuinty and Royal Galipeau, Member of Parliament for Ottawa-Orléans, were on hand this morning for the announcement that City staff will be recommending to Council that the international consortium known as the Rideau Transit Group be awarded the contract to design, build, finance and maintain the Ottawa Light Rail Transit (OLRT) project, which includes the building and financing of the Highway 417 widening project from the Nicholas Street on ramp to the split with Highway 174.

Highway 174 to re-open by 3 pm, including one lane of Jeanne D’Arc off-ramp

Ottawa – Highway 174 will open to eastbound traffic by 3 p.m. today, including one lane of the Jeanne D’Arc off-ramp, which will be open to both vehicles and transit.

“After working around the clock for almost two weeks, I am very pleased that the City can re-open the road in time for today’s evening commute,” said Mayor Jim Watson.  “I would like to extend my gratitude to City staff and our contractor for their hard work, and especially to our east end residents for their patience and co-operation.”

City announces progress and next steps for Highway 174

Ottawa – At today’s City Council meeting, Mayor Jim Watson outlined progress and next steps for Highway 174. This includes opening one eastbound lane of the highway later today, and undertaking reviews of the failure itself and similar infrastructure.

“We thank residents for their continued patience and understanding as we deal with this issue,” said Mayor Watson. “I want to also thank City staff for their hard work in helping residents navigate a much more challenging commute than usual.”

OC Transpo introduces new double-decker buses

Ottawa – At the Transit Commission meeting today, OC Transpo announced that the first of 75 new double-decker buses will begin service in October 2012. The introduction of the new fleet will provide lower operating costs and significant efficiencies, while creating a better experience for customers.

Fewer deaths and injuries on Ottawa roads in 2011

Ottawa – Traffic fatalities on Ottawa roads are at their lowest number in six years and traffic-related injuries have also declined, according to collision data released today.

“Most of the serious injuries and deaths that occur on our roads are preventable – everyone needs to do their part,” said Mayor Jim Watson. “The City is always looking at ways we can make our roads safer for everyone, whether it is through engineering or education.”

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