Grand River Transit celebrates 25 years of connecting Waterloo Region

Grand River Transit (GRT) is celebrating 25 years of providing sustainable transit services to the Waterloo Region.

Established on January 1, 2000, following the merger of Cambridge Transit and Kitchener Transit, GRT has become a cornerstone of the community, connecting people in the region.

Since its inception, GRT has grown significantly. According to the Region of Waterloo, annual service hours have increased from 345,000 in 2000 to nearly 840,000 in 2024, with ridership climbing from 10 million to over 26 million passengers.

The transit system now boasts a fleet of 340 vehicles, 2,400 stops, and 50 routes that cover more than 16 million kilometres annually.

Key milestones include the first route linking Cambridge, Kitchener, and Waterloo in 2000, the launch of ION light rail in 2019, and the introduction of electric buses in 2024.

GRT has also expanded service to areas like Elmira and Wilmot Township and continuously improved accessibility and rider convenience.

“Grand River Transit has been a cornerstone of our community for 25 years, connecting people to work, school, and recreation while fostering sustainability and growth,” said Karen Redman, chair of the Region of Waterloo. “This milestone is a testament to the dedication of GRT’s employees and the loyalty of our riders.” 

To mark this milestone, GRT will share stories, historical memorabilia, and updates on its future plans through its website and social media channels.

The upcoming business plan will outline enhancements in service coverage, frequency, and rider tools, setting the stage for GRT’s next chapter.