$72M investment in Waterloo Region transit, plus $5M for Kitchener emergency shelter
Almost $72 million is on its way to help improve public transit in Waterloo Region over the next 10 years.
The money was announced February 3 by Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, federal minister of housing, infrastructure and communities, at GRT’s Northfield Drive facility. Regional Chair Karen Redman, other regional councillors and local MPs also attended.
The Canadian government has pledged this money from 2026 to 2036. It will help the Region of Waterloo add new MobilityPLUS vehicles and upgrade on-street infrastructure, for example.
Transit investments help residents get around Waterloo Region. A good bus and LRT system makes life more affordable for many people and helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
“This long-term investment will help the Region of Waterloo maintain and expand the transit system that our community relies on and is proud of,” said Regional Chair Redman.
“This ten-year investment in transit will result in even further investment in critical infrastructure and housing – and set the Region of Waterloo up for success long term. I thank the federal government for recognizing this.”
“As GRT turns 25 this year, it’s a welcome quarter-century birthday gift.”
Funding for Frederick Street shelter
The federal government is also providing $5.4 million for an emergency shelter at 84 Frederick Street in downtown Kitchener.
The Region of Waterloo is investing $12.5 million to provide this much needed support for women and gender-diverse people.
The Region is currently renovating the building after buying the property in 2024. During construction, our community partner SHIP is operating a temporary 37-bed overnight shelter at this site.
After renovations are complete, 84 Frederick will operate 24/7, with 66 spaces and on-site supports to help people navigate next steps. It will give people access to emergency food and clothing, and support for housing, health, and social services.
“This is a result of regional staff and community partners coming together to identify the community’s greatest needs,” said Chair Redman at the funding announcement. “We look forward to the broader opening of 84 Frederick.”
Our community is responding to an unprecedented number of people currently experiencing homelessness. The Region of Waterloo is putting The Plan to End Chronic Homelessness into action. This plan was co-created with community partners and people who have experienced homelessness. More information on The Plan can be found on EngageWR.
The federal funds come from Canada’s Unsheltered Homelessness and Encampment Initiative. The Region of Waterloo is grateful for support from our governmental partners.