The First O-Train LRV to Arrive in the West

An update for Stage 2 LRT! The first O-Train LRT vehicle went from Belfast to Corktown!

Watch the video below.

“A significant milestone in Ottawa’s transit history was captured as the first O-Train Light Rail Vehicle (LRV) journeyed from Belfast Yard to Corkstown Yard, marking the first train in the west. This move is a key step in the ongoing expansion of Ottawa’s O-Train system. Watch as the train’s path is followed, exploring the process behind this important transfer and offering a sneak peek at what’s to come for the western extension.

Mary-Ellen Gleeson, Program Manager for Rail Construction Management, shares insights on this major milestone and historic moment. The train (LRV 1147) was separated into two segments and loaded onto a specially designed float at Belfast Yard. It then travelled via Highway 417 to Corkstown Yard near Moodie Station. The float’s unique capabilities played a crucial role in the move, as it can lower and reconfigure itself to allow the light rail vehicle (LRV) to roll on and off smoothly for transport. Upon arrival, the process of unloading the LRV involved carefully positioning the truck and trailer at the yard’s rails. The tractor detached and relocated to the opposite end of the float trailer to reconnect.

The float then unfolded additional rails and slowly lowered to align with the yard’s tracks. A winch cable was attached from the tractor to the end of the LRV, and the float was slightly raised by the tractor, tilting the tracks downward. This allowed the winch to gradually release the LRV, rolling it down onto the yard track. Finally, a diesel rail car mover attached to the LRV and towed it into the yard facilities.

*NOTE* Our apologies for the poor audio for the dialogue with Mary-Ellen Gleeson. As it was completely unplanned, the usual audio gear was not brought on-site, so it had to be captured with camera audio only in the wind.”