OC Transpo is again running some two-car Line 1 trains, nearly four months after its latest wheel problem led it to cut service and work on solutions.
Ottawa’s transit service said Wednesday evening there would be a mix of one- and two-car trains on weekdays starting Thursday.
No matter the length, trains will still come every three to four minutes during peak times, it said.
The cars each hold 300 people.
Line 1 of the LRT has been running with reduced service since Jan. 21, when flaking metal was found inside the cartridge bearing assembly that connects the axle to the wheels.
That latest wheel problem on the problem-plagued line forced OC Transpo to take most of its train cars off the rails and operate with single-car service.
Single-car service has led to some crowding problems, particularly during peak morning and afternoon hours.
Meeting Thursday
As of the most recent update, on May 8, OC Transpo had 27 train cars available for service.
Transit general manager Rick Leary said Tuesday he was eyeing mid-June for a return to two-car trains, saying that would allow the service to keep spare trains aside for any problems.
After that is restored, Leary said the focus will turn to opening the line’s eastern extension into Orléans.
Another update is expected Thursday at the city’s transit committee meeting. OC Transpo has also been dealing with bus maintenance problems and shortages for most of the year.