Introduction

Proponent

Regional Municipality of Waterloo

Location

Regional Municipality of Waterloo (Waterloo, Kitchener and Cambridge)

Type

Transit

Reference Number

05021

Contact

Environmental Approvals Branch, 416-314-8001

Toll free 1-800-461-6290

Current Status

Terms of reference: approved, July 21, 2005

Project Summary

The purpose of the undertaking is to develop a new rapid transit system within its primary urbanized area identified in its Regional Growth Management Strategy.

Project History

  • Terms of reference: approved
    • Date submitted:  April 29, 2005
    • Expiry of public comment period:  May 31, 2005
    • Decision date: July 21, 2005

Terms of Reference

Purpose of the study

The Regional Municipality of Waterloo (the proponent) is seeking to develop a new rapid transit system within its primary urbanized area identified in its Regional Growth Management Strategy. This area links the major urban centres of the Cities of Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo. Rapid Transit is defined as a public transportation system operating for its entire length primarily on an exclusive right-of-way. The purpose of the Rapid Transit Initiative undertaking is to provide residents of Waterloo Region with greater transportation choices through the introduction of rapid transit service within the Region’s primary re-urbanization area set out in its Growth Management Strategy. This area includes the entire area of the potential central transit corridor symbolically represented in the Regional Official Policies Plan. Furthermore, the rationale for the undertaking is to provide a broad range of benefits, including urban revitalization and intensification, improved air quality, improved public health, a more balanced and integrated transportation system, and protection of the rural countryside against urban population and expansion pressures.

Study area

The primary study area for the environmental assessment to be conducted for the rapid transit system, under Section 6.1(2) of the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act, extends from immediately north of Waterloo, through the Kitchener core area and south to the Galt City Centre in Cambridge. An important feature of this study area is that it is located entirely within designated urban areas of the Region.

The Terms of Reference is available for review on line at Region of Waterloo - Rapid Transit - Home.