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GRT Business Plan

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Grand River Transit's business plan will provide a roadmap to guide transit investment priorities to 2030 and beyond. The GRT Business Plan builds on transit priorities identified through the Region’s Strategic Plan and Budget consultations. It will focus on how to make transit easier to use, where and when GRT can serve you better, and how and where GRT should prioritize frequency and speed.

There are three different pieces to the GRT Business Plan. Together, the plans will help make GRT the easy transportation choice across Waterloo Region.

Conventional Bus and Train Business Plan

  • Guide the expansion of conventional bus and train services, to ensure GRT can meet the needs of a rapidly-growing population and support the Region’s commitment to reducing community emissions.
  • The plan focuses on strategic transit priorities identified by riders, the community, GRT and the Region:
    • Frequency, Speed, Customer-driven innovation, Strategic new coverage, and Simple and intuitive transit
  • The following proposed investments would help achieve these strategic priorities:
    • Frequent transit network: Service every 10 minutes on weekdays, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m., and every 15 minutes all other times, on 16 routes in Cambridge, Kitchener, and Waterloo
    • Strategic new coverage: Strategic expansion focused on new growth and industrial areas with streamlined routes for useful improvements to coverage
    • Consistent schedules: Enhance frequency to make schedules more consistent all-day, everyday, so more transit trips are more equitable and intuitive for more riders
    • Highway express: Introduce frequent and rapid single-seat service between Cambridge, Kitchener, and Waterloo, giving riders more time back in their day
    • Overnight network: Launch 24/7 service on key routes, with 30-minute overnight frequency supporting shift workers, students, and core areas
  • Learn more about the proposed transit investments

MobilityPLUS and Kiwanis Transit Business Plan

  • Guide the improvement and expansion of specialized transit services within Waterloo Region.
  • Key strategic priorities have been identified for the MobilityPLUS and Kiwanis Transit Business Plan:
    • Improve GRT’s capacity to meet growing trip requests
    • Continue to improve MobilityPLUS service and customer experience
    • Investigate technology solutions to improve service
    • Better understand customer needs and improve customer communication
    • Improve coordination between MobilityPLUS and Kiwanis Transit
  • Learn more about the MobilityPLUS Business Plan

Township Transit Strategy

Share your feedback

  • Our surveys have closed, but you can ask any questions using the Q+A tool below, or watch our virtual sessions on the Events tab.

Updates

Subscribe to this project for updates as GRT prepares a final draft of the GRT Business Plan for public and Regional Council review in 2025.

Grand River Transit's business plan will provide a roadmap to guide transit investment priorities to 2030 and beyond. The GRT Business Plan builds on transit priorities identified through the Region’s Strategic Plan and Budget consultations. It will focus on how to make transit easier to use, where and when GRT can serve you better, and how and where GRT should prioritize frequency and speed.

There are three different pieces to the GRT Business Plan. Together, the plans will help make GRT the easy transportation choice across Waterloo Region.

Conventional Bus and Train Business Plan

  • Guide the expansion of conventional bus and train services, to ensure GRT can meet the needs of a rapidly-growing population and support the Region’s commitment to reducing community emissions.
  • The plan focuses on strategic transit priorities identified by riders, the community, GRT and the Region:
    • Frequency, Speed, Customer-driven innovation, Strategic new coverage, and Simple and intuitive transit
  • The following proposed investments would help achieve these strategic priorities:
    • Frequent transit network: Service every 10 minutes on weekdays, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m., and every 15 minutes all other times, on 16 routes in Cambridge, Kitchener, and Waterloo
    • Strategic new coverage: Strategic expansion focused on new growth and industrial areas with streamlined routes for useful improvements to coverage
    • Consistent schedules: Enhance frequency to make schedules more consistent all-day, everyday, so more transit trips are more equitable and intuitive for more riders
    • Highway express: Introduce frequent and rapid single-seat service between Cambridge, Kitchener, and Waterloo, giving riders more time back in their day
    • Overnight network: Launch 24/7 service on key routes, with 30-minute overnight frequency supporting shift workers, students, and core areas
  • Learn more about the proposed transit investments

MobilityPLUS and Kiwanis Transit Business Plan

  • Guide the improvement and expansion of specialized transit services within Waterloo Region.
  • Key strategic priorities have been identified for the MobilityPLUS and Kiwanis Transit Business Plan:
    • Improve GRT’s capacity to meet growing trip requests
    • Continue to improve MobilityPLUS service and customer experience
    • Investigate technology solutions to improve service
    • Better understand customer needs and improve customer communication
    • Improve coordination between MobilityPLUS and Kiwanis Transit
  • Learn more about the MobilityPLUS Business Plan

Township Transit Strategy

Share your feedback

  • Our surveys have closed, but you can ask any questions using the Q+A tool below, or watch our virtual sessions on the Events tab.

Updates

Subscribe to this project for updates as GRT prepares a final draft of the GRT Business Plan for public and Regional Council review in 2025.

Q+A

Ask your questions about the GRT Business Plan here.

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  • Share What are the potential impacts of the proposed budget cuts for the GRT and the proposed business plans? Is it going to be considered as a consideration for the business plan on Facebook Share What are the potential impacts of the proposed budget cuts for the GRT and the proposed business plans? Is it going to be considered as a consideration for the business plan on Twitter Share What are the potential impacts of the proposed budget cuts for the GRT and the proposed business plans? Is it going to be considered as a consideration for the business plan on Linkedin Email What are the potential impacts of the proposed budget cuts for the GRT and the proposed business plans? Is it going to be considered as a consideration for the business plan link

    What are the potential impacts of the proposed budget cuts for the GRT and the proposed business plans? Is it going to be considered as a consideration for the business plan

    Kel Chen asked about 1 month ago

    Thanks for the question!

    We are still on target to finalize the GRT Business Plan in early spring 2025, and will consider the outcomes of the Region's 2025 Plan and Budget process. 

    It is important to note that the GRT Business Plan is our long-term plan for prioritizing annual investments to support the Region's Strategic Plan and make GRT the easy transportation choice across Waterloo Region.

    GRT's proposed service expansions for 2025 do help lay the foundation for the GRT Business Plan, but are specifically focused on addressing overcrowding, on-time performance and to increase capacity for MobilityPLUS specialized services. More information can be found here: https://www.grt.ca/en/about-grt/budget-2025-and-transit.aspx

  • Share I saw on the GRT Page that there were some changes planned for North Waterloo... any idea what tehse changes will ential and what routes will be added or dropped on Facebook Share I saw on the GRT Page that there were some changes planned for North Waterloo... any idea what tehse changes will ential and what routes will be added or dropped on Twitter Share I saw on the GRT Page that there were some changes planned for North Waterloo... any idea what tehse changes will ential and what routes will be added or dropped on Linkedin Email I saw on the GRT Page that there were some changes planned for North Waterloo... any idea what tehse changes will ential and what routes will be added or dropped link

    I saw on the GRT Page that there were some changes planned for North Waterloo... any idea what tehse changes will ential and what routes will be added or dropped

    Russell F. asked about 1 month ago

    Thanks for question! At this time, the goal is to provide new and improved services on key corridors to support North Waterloo neighbourhoods and workplaces, such as the area near Erbsville Road and Platinum Drive. 

    Any new routes and route adjustments to improve GRT’s coverage of new areas will depend on the growth of GRT's bus fleet.

  • Share Where is the recording of the Nov 12 session you said would be posted to EngageWR on Facebook Share Where is the recording of the Nov 12 session you said would be posted to EngageWR on Twitter Share Where is the recording of the Nov 12 session you said would be posted to EngageWR on Linkedin Email Where is the recording of the Nov 12 session you said would be posted to EngageWR link

    Where is the recording of the Nov 12 session you said would be posted to EngageWR

    kae asked about 2 months ago

    The recording of the Nov. 12 session has been posted on the videos tab, or you can find it on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-Gl9f8RFQk

  • Share Why is the proposed highway express and new route 78 prioritizing Sportsworld Station over Fairway Station? Fairview Mall will bring you far more traffic I believe. I think route 78 should also extend to Waterloo. on Facebook Share Why is the proposed highway express and new route 78 prioritizing Sportsworld Station over Fairway Station? Fairview Mall will bring you far more traffic I believe. I think route 78 should also extend to Waterloo. on Twitter Share Why is the proposed highway express and new route 78 prioritizing Sportsworld Station over Fairway Station? Fairview Mall will bring you far more traffic I believe. I think route 78 should also extend to Waterloo. on Linkedin Email Why is the proposed highway express and new route 78 prioritizing Sportsworld Station over Fairway Station? Fairview Mall will bring you far more traffic I believe. I think route 78 should also extend to Waterloo. link

    Why is the proposed highway express and new route 78 prioritizing Sportsworld Station over Fairway Station? Fairview Mall will bring you far more traffic I believe. I think route 78 should also extend to Waterloo.

    E M asked about 2 months ago

    Thanks for your comments!

    Sportsworld Station is a key connection point for express trips between Cambridge, Kitchener, and Waterloo, as well as intercity services like GO transit. 

    The proposed Highway Express is one of the best opportunities to improve the speed of trips between municipalities - a key priority we heard from current and potential riders. The goal is to use the high speed corridor (the highway network) as much as possible, with stops at our key stations nearest the highway to provide connections to each community.

    We're happy you support connections to the airport! Route 78 is intended to serve the business park and increase connections to the Region of Waterloo International Airport.The GRT Business Plan will review, consider and prioritize strategic expansion of more GRT services to more destinations (including the airport) to help meet the needs of our growing community.

  • Share Can we make Bus 12 connect to University of Waterloo ION stop directly instead of stopping along University Avenue and forcing a long walk. on Facebook Share Can we make Bus 12 connect to University of Waterloo ION stop directly instead of stopping along University Avenue and forcing a long walk. on Twitter Share Can we make Bus 12 connect to University of Waterloo ION stop directly instead of stopping along University Avenue and forcing a long walk. on Linkedin Email Can we make Bus 12 connect to University of Waterloo ION stop directly instead of stopping along University Avenue and forcing a long walk. link

    Can we make Bus 12 connect to University of Waterloo ION stop directly instead of stopping along University Avenue and forcing a long walk.

    Badakchand asked 2 months ago

    There is no planned adjustment to Route 12 at this time. However, GRT continues to work with the University of Waterloo to explore access and infrastructure opportunities that can enhance connections between transit services at stops and stations serving campus.

  • Share Is GRT coordinating with Brantford and Brant County to explore interregional connections to Paris and Brantford? on Facebook Share Is GRT coordinating with Brantford and Brant County to explore interregional connections to Paris and Brantford? on Twitter Share Is GRT coordinating with Brantford and Brant County to explore interregional connections to Paris and Brantford? on Linkedin Email Is GRT coordinating with Brantford and Brant County to explore interregional connections to Paris and Brantford? link

    Is GRT coordinating with Brantford and Brant County to explore interregional connections to Paris and Brantford?

    MjjG asked 2 months ago

    Thanks for the question!

    GRT's Business Plan is focused on transit investments within the Region of Waterloo. 

    Ontario's Ministry of Transportation and/or Metrolinx generally lead inter-regional transportation plans and services. More information can be found here.

  • Share Is it possible to have free transit? No costs related to fare collection, less congestion on streets from people who really do not want to drive if service expands and becomes more frequent. Less road widening construction required could pay transit costs, maybe? I realize higher taxes are likely required requiring a promotional case for free transit. on Facebook Share Is it possible to have free transit? No costs related to fare collection, less congestion on streets from people who really do not want to drive if service expands and becomes more frequent. Less road widening construction required could pay transit costs, maybe? I realize higher taxes are likely required requiring a promotional case for free transit. on Twitter Share Is it possible to have free transit? No costs related to fare collection, less congestion on streets from people who really do not want to drive if service expands and becomes more frequent. Less road widening construction required could pay transit costs, maybe? I realize higher taxes are likely required requiring a promotional case for free transit. on Linkedin Email Is it possible to have free transit? No costs related to fare collection, less congestion on streets from people who really do not want to drive if service expands and becomes more frequent. Less road widening construction required could pay transit costs, maybe? I realize higher taxes are likely required requiring a promotional case for free transit. link

    Is it possible to have free transit? No costs related to fare collection, less congestion on streets from people who really do not want to drive if service expands and becomes more frequent. Less road widening construction required could pay transit costs, maybe? I realize higher taxes are likely required requiring a promotional case for free transit.

    Mark asked 2 months ago

    Thank you for the great question!

    As you mention, transit is never "free". If the service is free to ride it means the entire cost of the service and infrastructure is funded through taxes, which can make it challenging for transit to meet the needs of a growing community.

    GRT's fare strategy helps fund service expansions that make the network easier and more convenient for more people, generating more funds to offset the cost of future service expansions and support more riders. 

  • Share Is there any plan to create a student (specifically high school student) monthly pass? When I was a student in high school, there was a relationship between GRT and WRDSB/WCDSB to offer a subsidized pass to all students. I see you currently have arrangements for post-secondary but not for high school. I currently have 2 high school students, and their daily rate both ways is $6/kid. Or we could get them the $96 monthly pass. We’re not eligible for the Affordable Transit Program. I would love to know your plans to make this more affordable for families and to encourage more transit ridership among the kids. Thank you. on Facebook Share Is there any plan to create a student (specifically high school student) monthly pass? When I was a student in high school, there was a relationship between GRT and WRDSB/WCDSB to offer a subsidized pass to all students. I see you currently have arrangements for post-secondary but not for high school. I currently have 2 high school students, and their daily rate both ways is $6/kid. Or we could get them the $96 monthly pass. We’re not eligible for the Affordable Transit Program. I would love to know your plans to make this more affordable for families and to encourage more transit ridership among the kids. Thank you. on Twitter Share Is there any plan to create a student (specifically high school student) monthly pass? When I was a student in high school, there was a relationship between GRT and WRDSB/WCDSB to offer a subsidized pass to all students. I see you currently have arrangements for post-secondary but not for high school. I currently have 2 high school students, and their daily rate both ways is $6/kid. Or we could get them the $96 monthly pass. We’re not eligible for the Affordable Transit Program. I would love to know your plans to make this more affordable for families and to encourage more transit ridership among the kids. Thank you. on Linkedin Email Is there any plan to create a student (specifically high school student) monthly pass? When I was a student in high school, there was a relationship between GRT and WRDSB/WCDSB to offer a subsidized pass to all students. I see you currently have arrangements for post-secondary but not for high school. I currently have 2 high school students, and their daily rate both ways is $6/kid. Or we could get them the $96 monthly pass. We’re not eligible for the Affordable Transit Program. I would love to know your plans to make this more affordable for families and to encourage more transit ridership among the kids. Thank you. link

    Is there any plan to create a student (specifically high school student) monthly pass? When I was a student in high school, there was a relationship between GRT and WRDSB/WCDSB to offer a subsidized pass to all students. I see you currently have arrangements for post-secondary but not for high school. I currently have 2 high school students, and their daily rate both ways is $6/kid. Or we could get them the $96 monthly pass. We’re not eligible for the Affordable Transit Program. I would love to know your plans to make this more affordable for families and to encourage more transit ridership among the kids. Thank you.

    Jessie asked 2 months ago

    Thanks for the question! We appreciate your efforts to introduce your children to the indepence and convenience GRT offers!

    GRT's universal transit pass (U-Pass) program with the universities and colleges are based on financial and administrative commitments for universal student participation in exchange for unlimited transit rides at an affordable price. Through the agreements, all full-time students enrolled in university and college campuses in Waterloo Region pay U-Pass program fees. More information can be found here: www.grt.ca/students

    The GRT Business Plan's upcoming fare strategy will include an assessment of potential fare structures, products, and programs (including potential high school and youth fare programs or policies). 

    However, it is important to note that, similar to our U-Pass programs, any high school transit program will likely require financial and administrative commitments from the school board(s).

  • Share Was there consideration for connecting the Highway Express bus proposed to the downtown Kitchener transit hub in order to connect with intercity trains? on Facebook Share Was there consideration for connecting the Highway Express bus proposed to the downtown Kitchener transit hub in order to connect with intercity trains? on Twitter Share Was there consideration for connecting the Highway Express bus proposed to the downtown Kitchener transit hub in order to connect with intercity trains? on Linkedin Email Was there consideration for connecting the Highway Express bus proposed to the downtown Kitchener transit hub in order to connect with intercity trains? link

    Was there consideration for connecting the Highway Express bus proposed to the downtown Kitchener transit hub in order to connect with intercity trains?

    mattfr asked 2 months ago

    Thanks for the great question! 

    At this time the Highway Express proposal does not consider a stop at the current GO/VIA station or future transit hub.

    The proposed Highway Express is one of the best opportunities to improve the speed of trips between municipalities - a key priority we heard from current and potential riders. The goal is to use the high speed corridor (the highway network) as much as possible, with stops at key stations near the highway to provide connections to each community. 

  • Share With increased frequency on many of the routes, are there any plans to introduce reserved bus lanes, especially on university avenue between weber and westmount? Something like a BRT. on Facebook Share With increased frequency on many of the routes, are there any plans to introduce reserved bus lanes, especially on university avenue between weber and westmount? Something like a BRT. on Twitter Share With increased frequency on many of the routes, are there any plans to introduce reserved bus lanes, especially on university avenue between weber and westmount? Something like a BRT. on Linkedin Email With increased frequency on many of the routes, are there any plans to introduce reserved bus lanes, especially on university avenue between weber and westmount? Something like a BRT. link

    With increased frequency on many of the routes, are there any plans to introduce reserved bus lanes, especially on university avenue between weber and westmount? Something like a BRT.

    Zack Red asked 2 months ago

    Thank you for your question! 

    Yes - the GRT Business Plan will consider new transit-priority infrastructure on key corridors where possible to help prioritize frequency and speed improvements to improve travel times.

Page last updated: 24 Dec 2024, 03:07 PM