Waterloo’s ION rail line takes another step toward expansion
Stage 2 of Waterloo Region’s ION light rail project took another step toward reality on June 21.
The region announced that the Ontario government had approved its Transit Project Assessment for the line extension. The move means that the region can now begin the process of seeking funding from the provincial and federal governments to advance the project towards construction.
“We’re thrilled to be able to proceed with delivering Stage 2 of ION light rail transit to residents in Waterloo Region,” said Regional Chair Karen Redman. “Stage 1 has been an incredible success getting people to where they need to go in a fast, reliable and affordable way. We’re committed to providing this much-needed service to community members in Cambridge.”
Stage 2 ION will complete the connection among three of the region’s major cities. It will link Waterloo, Kitchener and Cambridge through 18 kilometers of light rail and eight stations ending at the future light rail station in downtown Cambridge.
Stage 1 of the ION line opened exactly two years to the day before this most recent Stage 2 announcement—on June 21, 2019. Since then, millions of rides have taken place along 19 kilometers of light rail and 19 stations between Conestoga Station in Waterloo to Fairway Station in Kitchener.
“The City of Cambridge is excited about this milestone that brings us closer to seeing rapid transit in our community,” said Cambridge mayor Kathryn McGarry. “ION will give Cambridge residents a convenient and sustainable alternative to travelling by car and move people seamlessly not only between the other two urban centres, but to the many businesses and amenities within our own community. When finished, ION will help create an even more connected and inclusive Waterloo Region.”
Along with providing a safe mode of transportation, light rail has also fostered local economic development. The region says the line has helped create more than $3.5 billion worth of investment in the central transit corridor.
“Stage 1 saw clear economic benefits and investment along the ION corridor,” said Greg Durocher, President and CEO of the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce. “We’re excited to be one step closer to seeing these same economic benefits in Cambridge.”
Featured image: An ION light rail train in the Region of Waterloo (Region of Waterloo)