Making Decisions that Matter - June 25, 2025
With input from the community, Regional Council sets the direction for the Region as an organization and makes decisions that help improve the lives of Waterloo Region residents every day. Please refer to the minutes for an official record of the meeting.
Council approves plan to enhance GRT service and reach for riders
Council has approved a road map for how Grand River Transit riders will get faster, more reliable, and more accessible service over the next decade and beyond. The priorities in GRT’s business plan were guided by riders, the community, area municipalities, and other partners. Investments requiring Regional funding will be proposed during the Region’s annual plan and budget process and GRT will seek other funding sources where possible.
New measures at Stirling and Weber will enhance safety for drivers
Council voted to eliminate turns and crossings from Stirling Avenue onto Weber Street in Kitchener following an increase in collisions at that intersection. Over the past five years, 13 of the 17 collisions there were caused by vehicles trying to turn left or go straight through Stirling to Weber. Eliminating this movement could reduce overall collisions by as much as 76 per cent. Staff may also consider installing a median.
Plan ensures residents can rely on essential infrastructure as region grows
Council has approved an updated plan that shows how to manage $11.31 billion worth of essential infrastructure assets residents rely on today and as the region grows. The Asset Management Plan shows that 84 per cent of the Region’s assets, including roads, water and wastewater infrastructure, buildings, housing and vehicles, are in good repair. It also says the Region needs to increase its yearly investment to maintain and renew existing infrastructure. Council will continue to look at all opportunities and find solutions that keep the community thriving while balancing affordability for residents.
Council endorses strategy that supports economic and social success of newcomers
Council has endorsed an Immigration Partnership strategy that envisions an inclusive community where immigrants thrive and contribute to shared prosperity and growth. Since 2009, hundreds of public, private and non-profit organizations have worked together through the Immigration Partnership to enhance immigrant success and community prosperity. The strategy calls for community-based action to support immigrants and leverage the community benefits of immigration.
Council moves forward with improvements to historic West Montrose Covered Bridge
The West Montrose Covered Bridge, Ontario’s last remaining original covered bridge, has received approval to proceed with essential repairs. Council has awarded a contract and approved necessary funding to rehabilitate the bridge, replace deteriorated wooden truss members and bridge elements, and help protect it in the future. The West Montrose Covered bridge, built in 1881, is a historic landmark that brings tourism to the region and is an important connection for nearby residents, Kissing Bridge Trail users, and the Mennonite community. The repairs will keep it safe for generations to come.
Council approves costs for improving pedestrian safety and smooth travel along busy Regional roads
Council has approved costs for several projects aimed at improving pedestrian safety and making travel smoother for all users along a few busy Regional roads in Kitchener and Cambridge:
- Adding opposing left-turn lanes at the intersection of Kossuth Road and Chilligo Side Road.
- Adding a multi-use path on Strasburg Road between Ottawa Street and the Highway 7/8 pedestrian bridge.
- As part of a roundabout pilot project, the following improvements will be implemented:
- Raised crosswalks, flashing beacons and improved street lighting at Ira Needles Boulevard and Erb Street, Waterloo.
- Raised crosswalks, and improved street lighting at Homer Watson Boulevard and Block Line Road, Kitchener.
- Flashing beacons at Franklin Boulevard and Bishop Street North, Cambridge.
Region to support artists and arts organizations through extended short-term funding program
A new funding model will support individual artists and collectives in an equitable and effective way. The Region will hire an independent community partner who will work with artists and arts experts to administer arts funding over the next three years while exploring longer-term options. Staff will engage with community and area municipalities and bring a report back to council in the fall on longer-term funding models, including exploring the viability of an arts council.
Regional Council to fill a vacant Kitchener seat by issuing a call for applications
Council has declared a Kitchener Regional Council seat vacant after the passing of Councillor Kari Williams. The seat will be filled by issuing a call for applications, which will be advertised to the public starting July 2nd. Interested individuals will submit an application that demonstrates their eligibility, along with a personal statement of qualifications. All applicants will have an opportunity to present at a Special Council meeting before a decision is made.
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