Ottawa LRT Line 1 service starting early on Ottawa Marathon day
The City of Ottawa says service on the Confederation Line LRT will launch early on the day of the Ottawa Marathon to make it easier for runners and spectators to get downtown.
Typically, the east-west LRT line doesn't start operations until 8 a.m. on Sundays, but the marathon's start time is 7 a.m. Last year, several people noted that the train wasn't running until the marathon had already started, but the city said the O-Train's maintenance schedule prevented them from launching trains earlier.
- Sign up now for daily CTV News Ottawa newsletters
- The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App
This year, trains will be running between Tunney's Pasture and Blair stations starting at 5 a.m. on May 26, two hours before the marathon's start time. O-Train Line 1 will run as scheduled on Saturday, May 25, from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m.
"We are thrilled to be able to partner with OC Transpo and the City of Ottawa to bring early opening of the O-Train Line 1 at 5 a.m. on Sunday, May 26," said Run Ottawa executive director Mike Vieira in a news release. "As thousands of eager runners, volunteers, and spectators converge for Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, Run Ottawa extends a warm invitation to all participants to take advantage of this environmentally conscious and convenient way to get downtown. Let's skip the traffic and use public transit to make race weekend a smooth ride for everyone!"
The starting line for the 2024 Tartan Ottawa International Marathon is near the corner of Laurier Avenue West and Elgin Street. Rideau and uOttawa stations are the closest LRT stations to the starting line.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Ottawa Marathon. The City of Ottawa says this is the first time in several years the marathon has reached maximum capacity.
"Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend is an enormously popular event and with O-Train Line 1 opening early this year, it is easy to get to the race using transit," said Transit Commission Chair Coun. Glen Gower. "Whether paying your fare by credit card or taking advantage of the many O-Train Stations that are a short walk away from the event, OC Transpo is your most convenient, eco-friendly, affordable and stress-free choice. I would like to wish all those joining us at Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend a successful race."
Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend runs May 25-26, with 2K, 5K, 10K races and the kids' marathon on Saturday and the full and half-marathons on Sunday.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
BREAKING Slovak interior minister says 'lone wolf' has been charged with shooting prime minister
The Slovak interior minister said Thursday that a 'lone wolf' has been charged in the shooting that seriously wounded Prime Minister Robert Fico.
There's a new workers' rights treaty in Canada, but will it actually protect you?
Although a global workers' treaty has been in force in Canada since January, an employment lawyer believes it won't do anything more to protect employees from violence and harassment.
Protecting your car from the growing risk of keyless vehicle thefts
Auto technology has evolved and many newer cars use wireless key fobs and push-button starters instead of traditional metal keys. But that technology also makes things easier for thieves.
Shifting winds mean smokier skies in some parts of Canada, snow in other areas
Air quality warnings are still in place for some areas of Western Canada, according to the latest forecasts.
DEVELOPING Latest updates on the major wildfires currently burning in Canada
Thousands of Canadians have been displaced as fires burn in Alberta, B.C. and Manitoba. Here are the latest updates.
Will jurors believe Michael Cohen? Defense keys on witness' credibility at Trump's hush money trial
With prosecutors' hush money case against Donald Trump barreling toward its end, their star witness will be back in the hot seat Thursday as defense lawyers try to chip away at Michael Cohen's crucial testimony implicating the former president.
U.S. intelligence officials wanted to meet with Transport Canada's UFO 'lead'
Canada's transportation department had a UFO 'lead' who tried to 'quell' media interest and planned to meet with U.S. intelligence officials.
OPINION If you think you can't focus for long, you're right: Sandee LaMotte
Regaining your focus requires you to be mindful of how you are using technology -- a daunting task if you consider the average American spends at least 10 hours a day on screens.
NEW Victoria Day travel plans? Here are some tips for a smooth trip
May 20 is Victoria Day. If you're going across the border this long weekend, follow these tips for a smoother trip.