Making Decisions That Matter for August 26, 2026
New pedestrian crossover in Wilmot
A pedestrian crossover at Waterloo Street and Forrest Avenue/Victoria Street in Wilmot was approved for installation in 2027 to make it safer and easier for people to cross, particularly near Forest Glen Public School. The crossover installation will include signs, pavement markings and rapid flashing beacons to advise motorists that they must stop and yield the right-of-way to any crossing pedestrians. Removal of the existing northbound/southbound left-turn lanes on Waterloo Street will also enhance traffic control at the intersection.
Improving Myers Road and Branchton Road in Cambridge
Council approved a design concept to improve Myers Road and Branchton Road in Cambridge, with construction currently planned in stages between 2028 and 2030. Raised boulevards and designated crossings near Moffat Creek School will help create a safer school commute. With new sidewalks, improved bus stops, and upgraded water and sewer infrastructure, the project will improve road conditions and drainage and strengthen transit and active transportation connections.
Preserving and strengthening affordable communities in Cambridge
A policy exemption approved by Regional Council will help preserve affordable homes and strengthen the Victoria Park community in Cambridge. Victoria Park Community Homes requested an exemption to the Region’s Affordable Housing Refinancing Policy Framework so that tenants could benefit from nearly $5 million in low interest funding and grants for upgrades. The upgrades will provide better heating, cooling and fresh air and significantly improve the building’s energy efficiency while maintaining affordable rents. Victoria Park Community Homes has been providing affordable housing across the province for more than 50 years.
Evaluating bus stop snow clearing
The Region will explore ways to improve snow clearing at bus stops through the next winter maintenance contract, including incentives or penalties to support reliable service. Staff will also review how residents can report missed snow clearing, receive updates, and identify any opportunities for improvement.
Vendor chosen to expand the Region’s environmental laboratory in Cambridge
Council has approved a vendor for the expansion and renovation of its Environmental Enforcement and Laboratory Services facility in Cambridge to meet growing demand for water, wastewater and environmental testing. The project will add modern laboratory space, a sample receiving area, storage, and office space, which will expand the Region’s capacity to support monitoring for water, protect public health, and meet all regulatory and bylaw requirements. Work is expected to start this fall with the expansion to be complete by October 2028 and the renovations in 2029.
Creating a more connected road network in Wilmot
The Region will take over responsibility for a portion of Nafziger Road in Wilmot to create a more connected and coordinated approach to road maintenance, traffic operations and future improvements. The transfer will fill an existing gap in the Regional road network and improve continuity and connections to the provincial highway system.
Council enhances accessible taxi services across the Region
Following a pilot that showed a 40% increase in overnight trips, the Region will continue to provide availability of two on-call accessible taxis for overnight service. The service will help residents who rely on accessible transportation have more reliable options for getting to work, appointments, social activities and home safely during hours when transportation choices are limited.
Region to review the impacts and opportunities of data centre development
As municipalities begin to assess the opportunities, risks, and policy issues related to data centres, Council has asked staff to prepare a report on the potential benefits and impacts of data centre development in Waterloo Region. Staff will report back to Council by early 2027 on how data centre development may affect infrastructure capacity, environmental sustainability, and economic development.
Reviewing transit connections in growing and underserved communities
Council has asked staff to bring forward recommendations that support the objectives of the Grand River Transit business plan and address gaps in transit service for growing neighbourhoods, urban centres and other underserved areas of Waterloo Region. Staff will assess practical short-term options to improve connections, including expected costs, ridership potential, implementation needs, fares and funding options. The proposed plan will be presented ahead of the Region's 2027 Plan and Budget process.
Updating Library policies to support community needs
The Region of Waterloo Library is updating key policies to help ensure library services remain clear, inclusive and responsive to community needs. Updates will improve transparency for residents and support welcoming, accessible library spaces for everyone.
Improving transparency and accountability for use of public funds
The Region is updating its Council Conference Policy to provide clearer, more consistent rules for expenses related to councillors’ conferences, conventions and professional development. The updated policy sets out eligible costs, strengthens documentation requirements and helps prevent duplicate reimbursements, supporting transparent and accountable use of public funds.
Council opposes regional governance models with dual mayor and chair role
Council unanimously approved a motion opposing any governance model allowing one person to serve simultaneously as Mayor and Regional Chair, expressing concern about the concentration of Strong Mayor and Strong Chair powers in one individual. The motion and concerns will be shared with the Premier of Ontario, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, local MPPs, area municipalities and affected regional municipalities.
