Ontario Funds Boost Public Transit in Waterloo Region

The Ontario government is putting millions into enhancing public transport in the townships of Waterloo region.

A total of $15.8 million will be allocated to five projects benefiting 30 communities across the province. The towns receiving funds include Woolwich, Wellesley, Wilmot, and North Dumfries, which will collectively receive $3.4 million.

The remaining money will go to Temiskaming Shores ($4.9 million), Bradford West Gwillimbury ($4.1 million), Riverside Healthcare Facilities in Rainy River ($1.7 million), and the Canadian Urban Transit Research and Innovations Consortium in the Niagara Region ($1.7 million).

Ric Bresee, parliamentary assistant to Ontario’s minister of seniors and accessibility, announced this on Tuesday at Grand River Transit’s Northfield Drive maintenance facility in Waterloo.

“Building a stronger Ontario means ensuring that communities of every size have access to reliable transportation,” Bresee said during a news conference.

“These investments will strengthen local and inter-community transit, helping to connect more people to jobs, housing, healthcare and opportunity.”

Ric Bresee, parliamentary assistant to Ontario’s minister of transportation, reacts to cheers from public transit employees after he announced the province will invest $3.4 million for the Region of Waterloo to expand transit services in local townships. (Aastha Shetty/CBC)

A Two-Phase Plan for Rural Transit Improvement

Efforts to enhance transit in the townships are already underway.

The region plans to launch the first phase of township transit by spring 2027. This phase includes adding new fixed routes in Wellesley and North Dumfries townships while improving routes 21, 77, and 79.

The second phase will introduce new on-demand transit zones within Wellesley Township and North Dumfries Township.

Regional chair Karen Redman stated that this provincial funding is a significant step towards better transit in Waterloo region.

“Waterloo region is unique. We are a community made-up of three cities and four townships. Each has its own identity, history and strength, but people’s lives do not stop at municipal boundaries.

“Expanded transit means more choice. It means greater independence for seniors and youth, more affordable and accessible travel options for people who do not drive or who prefer to take a bus and better connections between our rural communities, urban centres and broader regional transit network.”

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