Mark Laroche, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Ottawa International Airport Authority, addressed the City of Ottawa’s Finance and Economic Development Committee this morning on the topic of the City’s Stage 2 Light Rail Transit (LRT) plan.

The Airport Authority has been a vocal advocate for an airport rail link as part of the Trillium Line, and Mr. Laroche expressed his support for the ongoing collaboration between the Authority and the City of Ottawa as they determined a solution in the functional design of the transit system. He also reiterated the Authority’s firm commitment to fund the airport terminal station in time for the planned date for revenue service operations in 2021. 

“When I addressed this committee on June 29, 2015, I talked about the importance of timing and said that we had the opportunity to do it right, to build it now or risk losing the airport link forever,” said Mark Laroche. “With the full support of the Board of Directors, I made an important commitment, to fund the airport terminal station. The Authority stands by that commitment. Finally, I asked for the City to champion the airport link to be part of LRT Stage 2. I am pleased to say that you did, and we are grateful for it.”

Airport Authority Board Chair, Susan St. Amand, added her support: “An efficient transportation system makes a city a more attractive destination for conference planners, tourists and business people. Visitors and community members consider efficient transportation from the airport to the downtown core and other destinations within the city when planning their travel and business activities. A well-designed airport link in Stage 2 and subsequent efficient operation will mean increased economic benefits for Ottawa.”

Mr. Laroche thanked City Council, city staff and the Light Rail project team for their support and their acknowledgment of the importance of an airport link. A world-class city like Ottawa needs a world-class transportation system, and the Stage 2 plan paves the way forward for efficient and effective travel for visitors and residents.

About the Ottawa International Airport Authority

OMCIAA manages, operates and develops airport facilities and lands in support of the economic growth of the National Capital Region, generating more than $2.2 billion annually in total economic activity in Ottawa and Gatineau.

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For more information:

Krista Kealey
Vice-President, Communications and Public Affairs
Ottawa International Airport Authority
613-248-2050
[email protected]