Starting November 23, weekend GO trains will soon be available in the Waterloo region, connecting to Toronto and other stops along the Kitchener line. The Ontario government recently announced this new service, which will include four trains traveling to Kitchener GO station, with stops in Acton and Guelph.
Minister of Transportation Prabmeet Sarkaria, along with local politicians including Kitchener-Conestoga MPP Mike Harris, made the announcement in Kitchener. Sarkaria emphasized that this move is a significant step towards achieving two-way, all-day GO train service in the Waterloo region. The weekend service will feature two trips a day on Saturdays and Sundays, offering morning and evening travel options.
The introduction of weekend trains became possible after an agreement between CN Rail and Metrolinx to share the tracks. As part of this agreement, 40 kilometers of track will be added to the Kitchener line, along with signal upgrades, bridge enhancements, track realignments, and platform expansions.
Sarkaria highlighted the province’s commitment to enhancing rail infrastructure, stating that the new dedicated passenger rail tracks will pave the way for expanded service and improved connectivity between Kitchener and Toronto. Once the necessary upgrades are completed, it will be feasible to implement two-way, all-day GO train service on an hourly basis throughout the week.
Kitchener-Conestoga MPP Mike Harris expressed his support for the new service, noting its potential to facilitate easier travel to Toronto and attract talent to the region. He emphasized the importance of bolstering transportation services to accommodate commuters and promote economic growth.
While progress has been made in advancing the two-way, all-day GO train service, challenges remain. Various projects, such as acquiring rail tracks and expanding capacity, have been initiated to support the initiative. Additionally, plans for a new transit hub in downtown Kitchener are underway, aiming to enhance rail infrastructure and improve passenger experience.
Metrolinx CEO Michael Lindsay acknowledged the ongoing efforts to realize the vision of expanded GO train service, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration and innovation in the construction sector to overcome existing challenges.
The implementation of weekend GO trains signifies a significant milestone in the region’s transportation development, with further enhancements expected to transform travel between Kitchener and Toronto in the near future.
