The Region of Waterloo will see up to C$4 million (US$3.02 million) invested into the Grand River Transit network serving Conestoga College and the University of Waterloo.
The project benefiting the University of Waterloo is estimated to cost C$1.2 million (US$0.91 million) and includes the construction of four heated shelters with a shelter area for 40 bikes, as well as improved passenger protection and amenities. The Conestoga College project is estimated to cost C$2.8 million (US$2.12 million) and includes the installation of nine bus shelters, canopies and other amenities, as well as the purchase of six new buses to accommodate increased service.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford says the investment will help students as they pursue their education and connect them to the larger community and jobs.
"With more than 3,000 riders counting on taking a Grand River Transit bus to Conestoga College each and every weekday, it is clear that access to transit is a critical part of student life in the Region of Waterloo," said Premier Ford.
The funding for the project comes from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP); a C$30 billion ($US22.67 billion), 10-year infrastructure program cost-shared between federal, provincial and municipal governments. Ontario’s share per project will be up to 33.33 percent.
The project in Waterloo is in addition to 15 transit projects in the region being nominated for ICIP funding. The transit projects are worth up to C$60.7 million (US$45.87 million) in provincial funding. They include building the new Grand River Northfield Bus Maintenance Facility and the purchase of 30 new buses, which will allow for transit expansion to meet growing demand in the region.
The projects are now with the federal government for final funding decisions as they are reviewed for eligibility under the ICIP program. Some projects could begin as soon as fall 2019.
