WATERLOO, ONT. — Canada, Ontario and the Region of Waterloo are investing more than $291 million in nine projects that are meant to increase access to public transit, reduce emissions and improve service and accessibility for commuters in the region.
One key project the money will go towards is the construction of the Kitchener Central Transit Hub.
Uniting the ION light rail, GO transit, VIA rail, intercity buses, passenger vehicles and Grand River Transit, the new facility will operate as an important node connecting Kitchener to the greater Region of Waterloo, a release reads.
It will include WiFi, security systems and a central plaza. The adjacent bus terminal at the corner of King Street and Victoria Street will also be upgraded with four additional bus bays and one mobility bus stop.
Funds are also going towards purchasing 56 hybrid buses to replace retired diesel buses and expanding the fleet with up to 70 additional hybrid buses.
“Other projects will enhance access to transit by supporting improvements for paths and pedestrian bridges and support general transit operations by improving accessibility and commuter comfort and safety,” the release adds.
The federal government is investing more than $115 million in these nine projects through the Public Transit Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The Government of Ontario is investing more than $96 million and the Regional Municipality of Waterloo is contributing more than $80 million.
