We are advocating for more funding to fill in significant gaps in the regional GO Transit bus network and to see it expand across Southern Ontario to serve new municipalities and locations.

As some routes are still in the planning phase of the 2041 Regional Transportation Plan and have not been implemented yet, our networks have had problems when it comes to connecting towns and cities outside the Greater Toronto Area. Many communities that require connections have either lost them, or never had them in the first place.

Introducing new routes to serve emerging communities would help remove significant barriers to regional connectivity and grow economic development. This is also a vital step in ensuring equitable access to services for all communities in Southern Ontario.

1. Add a direct GO bus service between Cambridge and Guelph along County Road 124 (via Cambridge Centre or Ainslie Terminal to Guelph Central Station):

This would not only improve regional connectivity but also lay the groundwork for the anticipated future Cambridge GO service.

• There are no direct trips between Cambridge and Guelph, forcing riders to transfer in Kitchener or Aberfoyle, which can lead to extra travel and transfer time that can take upwards of 1–2 hours.

• GO buses that do stop in Cambridge are on the outskirts of the town, forcing another local bus connection instead of a one seat ride to destinations within the downtown.

2. Connecting Brantford and Cambridge with GO buses:  

Brantford and Cambridge, both key players in Ontario’s regional economy, are underserved by intercity transit. A dedicated GO bus route would provide much-needed mobility for commuters, reduce car dependency, and help bridge the gap between these two communities.

3. Add a Highway 8 connection between Waterloo and Hamilton as soon as new buses arrive:  

• With increasing demand for travel between Waterloo Region and Hamilton, the time is perfect for the implementation of a direct GO bus route. Delaying this service will continue to strain both regions' local economies and transit systems. As soon as new buses become available, this route must be established to provide commuters with reliable, environmentally friendly alternatives to driving.

4. Adding more transit connections in Haldimand County to Hamilton:  

• • Haldimand County, a largely rural area, is severely lacking in transit connectivity, particularly to Hamilton. Expanding transit options in this area will not only reduce isolation for residents but also provide essential access to healthcare, employment, and educational opportunities in Hamilton.

5. Connect more destinations in Southern Ontario

Elora and Fergus have fixed bus routes to Guelph and Owen Sound, but they only run twice a day per direction. There is no way to get to places like Paris, Ontario, Port Dover, Goderich, and Kincardine without a car.

• Have a bus link between Guelph and Elora and/or Fergus at the minimum.

• Have a direct bus link that stops at Ainslie Street Terminal and terminate Milton GO Station and arrive at times that align with the train schedule.

• Have a bus link between Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, and Aldershot GO Station in Burlington via Highway 8, in order to grant access from Cambridge to the Lakeshore West GO train line to those in the Region.

Have you ever been waiting for a bus that takes far too long to arrive? How many transfers do you need to take? Share with us your experiences.

Email moretransitso@gmail.com to propose routes we should advocate for, to show your support and to share your experiences.