Government of Canada commits C$6.4 million to LRT station at Ottawa airport

The government of Canada will provide C$6.4 million (US$5.17 million) to help construct the Trillium Line light-rail station at Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport.

“As we move forward with the safe gradual return of activity in the aviation sector, both in Canada and internationally, in a way that continues to support the health, safety and security of all Canadians, it will be imperative that we continue to ensure a vibrant and competitive Canadian air sector. The construction of the light-rail transit station at the Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport will reduce traffic congestion and improve accessibility and connectivity to the airport by offering an environmentally-sustainable direct link between downtown Ottawa and the airport,” said Canada’s Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra.

The funding is provided through Transport Canada’s Airport Critical Infrastructure Program, which launched in May 2021 and will distribute C$489.6 million (US$395.27 million) in funding over five years to airports for eligible infrastructure projects related to safety, security or connectivity to mass transit systems.

The Canadian government says it remains committed to working with the Ottawa Airport to ensure this important project is seen through until completion.

The airport LRT station’s project cost is estimated to be $16.9 million (US$13.64 million) to construct a three-story elevated structure connecting the airport terminal at the north end of Level 3 to the LRT station platform. The station will provide fully accessible connectivity for all users of the LRT who travel to and from the Ottawa Airport.

The city says the design of the station will be closely coordinated with the Airport Authority so that the station, platform, guideway and guideway structures will be constructed to allow the Airport Authority to construct the airport passenger terminal expansion, including the entrance and lounge directly, together.

Construction of the station is underway and is expected to be completed in summer 2022.

Mark Laroche, president and CEO of Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport Authority called the confirmation of funding for the station welcome news.

“It will help us fulfill our commitment to build the station and ensure that YOW’s passengers, airport employees and surrounding communities are well served by reliable, predictable light rail service well into the future. Connecting the airport with the city center and beyond by rail will be an important selling feature as the aviation and tourism industries recover and we work to bring major events and conferences back to Canada’s Capital Region,” said Laroche.