LONDON: The Ontario government is expanding GO train service to Southwestern Ontario with weekday trips between London and Toronto. The new service will also connect customers to Stratford and St. Marys using GO Transit services.
“The people of Southwestern Ontario deserve better access to a safe and reliable transportation network,” said Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation.
“We are taking concrete action and keeping our promise to extend much-needed GO service all the way to London.”
Beginning October 18, 2021, Metrolinx will provide weekday GO train trips between London and Union Station in Toronto. The pilot project will include one trip leaving from London in the early morning, and one return trip in the evening.
The new service will extend beyond GO Transit’s Kitchener line and also include stops in St. Marys and Stratford.
“This announcement is part of our transportation plan for Southwestern Ontario, providing another option that will benefit individuals, families and workers in the region,” said Stan Cho, Associate Minister of Transportation.
The province is working closely with VIA Rail and CN to extend service and explore ways to improve the speed and frequency of passenger rail service.
• The trip from London to Toronto’s Union Station will take approximately four hours. Between London and Kitchener will take approximately two hours.
• The province worked alongside transit partners including VIA Rail for use of their stations and CN for access to the corridor.
• Southwestern Ontario is experiencing incredible growth, with around 1.98 million people calling the region home by 2041.
• Increasing options for passengers travelling between London and Toronto is one of over 40 actions in Connecting the Southwest:
A Draft Transportation Plan for Southwestern Ontario. The Southwestern Ontario Transportation Task Force, formed in January 2021, will continue to explore opportunities to build an integrated transportation system across all modes, including rail, bus, and local transit services.
Randy Pettapiece, MPP for Perth—Wellington, said: “For years, people have expressed interest in GO train service through Perth-Wellington. I have spoken up for our area many times on this issue since I was first elected in 2011. Today’s announcement is fantastic news for Stratford, St. Marys, and Perth County. I want to thank local municipalities for making the case, and the provincial government for following through.”
Jeff Yurek, MPP for Elgin— Middlesex—London, said: “This is great news for London and Southwestern Ontario. The London rail extension is fulfilling an important part of our regional transportation plan. Increased transportation choices facilitate movement of people and goods which translates into economic opportunities for our region.”
Ed Holder, Mayor of London, said: “I want to thank the provincial government for making headway in our vision for more connections to Southwestern Ontario. “Londoners access to increased transportation options, and by extending the GO rail service we are keeping our promise to enhance economic productivity and business opportunities, while also supporting healthier, more connected communities.”