Weekend GO Train Service Launches Kitchener-Toronto Connection

URGENT UPDATE: Weekend GO train service officially launched today, connecting Kitchener and Toronto for the first time, marking a significant transit milestone. The new service began operating on the Kitchener Line early Sunday morning, allowing residents from Waterloo and Guelph to travel directly to downtown Toronto.

This long-awaited expansion, announced by Metrolinx in mid-October, extends four weekend trips that previously terminated at Mount Pleasant GO Station to Georgetown, Acton, Guelph Central, and Kitchener GO stations. Starting on November 23, 2023, the Kitchener Line will also see additional weekday service to accommodate growing demand for transit options.

The launch was celebrated by Ontario’s Transportation Minister, Prabmeet Sarkaria, who called it a “major milestone.” Premier Doug Ford echoed this sentiment on social media, stating, “It’s a big step forward in our plan to bring two-way, all-day GO service to Kitchener.”

According to the Transit Action Alliance of Guelph, around 500 passengers boarded the train for its inaugural journey between Kitchener and Georgetown GO stations. The advocacy group encouraged locals to participate in this momentous occasion, gathering approximately 100 supporters at Guelph Central GO Station for the first train at 8:07 a.m.

Passengers expressed excitement about the new service. One user on X remarked, “Makes going to Toronto on the weekend suddenly seem like a whole lot more fun. Planning to make regular use of this service.”

However, the launch did not come without criticism. Some users lamented the delays in service expansion, pointing out that it took 14 years since the initial expansion of GO train service to Kitchener in 2011. “For a capital-intensive GO rail option to finally have weekend service… is unacceptable!” one user noted.

Local political figures were also present at the launch. Mike Schreiner, leader of Ontario’s Green Party and representative for Guelph, acknowledged the efforts of transit advocates in pushing for the service. “Thanks to everyone who pushed to convince Metrolinx that there is demand for weekend service,” he stated, capturing the enthusiasm of the crowd.

The Kitchener Line is set to provide vital connectivity for residents seeking to travel to Toronto, boosting weekend plans and fostering economic activity. As more trains are added and schedules adjusted, the service’s impact is expected to grow.

The community’s anticipation of expanded weekday service continues, as Metrolinx has yet to provide a specific timeline for the completion of two-way, all-day service. As discussions continue, residents remain hopeful for more comprehensive transit solutions.

For those looking to travel this weekend, the new GO train service represents a pivotal change in how residents connect with Ontario’s capital. With the demand for transit solutions growing, this expansion is poised to significantly enhance weekend travel options for families and commuters alike.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as more details emerge regarding future service enhancements.