Friday, December 19, 2025
The federal government, Ontario and the Region of Waterloo are investing more than $291 million through the Public Transit Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program in nine projects for commuters in Waterloo Region.
“Under Premier Ford’s leadership, and as part of our plan to protect Ontario, our government is investing in the largest transit expansion in North America to tackle gridlock, keep workers on the job and support economic growth. Today’s funding builds on that work to make transit faster and easier while supporting continued growth in Kitchener, Waterloo and across Ontario,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Ontario’s Minister of Transportation.
Part of the investments will support the construction of the Kitchener Central Transit Hub (KCTH). Seamlessly uniting active transportation, 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 and beyond. It will include modern and accessible features such as Wi-Fi, advanced security systems, a central plaza, and integration with the local trail network. Through this investment, 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.
“This investment aligns with the Region of Waterloo’s vision for growth and Grand River Transit’s strategic priorities. By funding the Kitchener Central Transit Hub, incorporating more hybrid buses, and upgrading transit facilities, we are not only reducing emissions and improving accessibility but also connecting our communities and supporting climate-aligned growth within and beyond Waterloo Region,” said Karen Redman, Chair of the Region of Waterloo.
Funding is also being provided for public transit projects that will improve and support the delivery of affordable and reliable transit options in the Region of Waterloo. The projects include 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.
“This federal investment will strengthen Grand River Transit, support cleaner buses, and move forward the Kitchener Central Transit Hub. These improvements will help make our region more affordable, accessible, and connected for the future,” said Tim Louis, Member of Parliament for Kitchener-Conestoga.
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.
Featured image: (Government of Ontario)
