The federal, provincial and regional governments have announced a combined investment of more than $291 million to support nine public transit projects across the Region of Waterloo.

By far the largest line item among the spends is nearly $131 million for the construction of the Kitchener Central Transit Hub.

The project proposes to unite active transportation, ION light rail, GO transit, VIA rail, intercity buses, passenger vehicles and Grand River Transit to create a node connecting Kitchener to the greater Region of Waterloo and beyond.

The hub 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.

Additional funding is being provided to build two pedestrian rail crossings along the LRT line – one at the Hydro One corridor and one at Research and Technology Station. Also on the list of construction projects is work to build or improve 13 regional pedestrian crossings.

Further funding is 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.

"This investment aligns with the Region of Waterloo’s vision for growth and Grand River Transit’s strategic priorities,” said Regional Chair Karen Redman. “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."

The federal government is investing more than $115 million in the projects through the Public Transit Infrastructure Stream of its 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.

Federal funding is conditional on fulfilling all requirements related to consultation with Indigenous groups and environmental assessment obligations.