Province announces better GO transit service for Vaughan commuters

Vaughan Weekly
March 27, 2014
By Angela Gismondi

The Ontario government is improving transit service for local commuters by extending routes and enhancing train service.

Vaughan MPP Steven Del Duca was at the Maple GO station Monday to announce the Province is adding more trips on the Barrie GO Train line to make it easier for local commuters to take public transit. Del Duca made the announcement on behalf of Glen Murray, the Minister of Transportation.

“This is great news for the residents of Vaughan,” said Del Duca. “Increased GO service has long been necessary and I’m delighted that our government is taking this important step, which is in keeping with the crucial infrastructure investments that we continue to make in Vaughan and across York Region.”

Starting April 5, GO Transit will extend one of the morning and afternoon trains on the Barrie line from 10 to 12 cars, adding 320 more seats per trip.

Starting June 28, there will also be two new weekday morning trains on the Barrie line from Maple to Union Station.

The community of Vaughan is growing and so is the demand for transit.

“We’ve heard loud and clear that people need more service,” said Del Duca. “Demand will continue to grow. Our work is not done.”

Del Duca said he will continue to advocate for an additional GO Station in the north Maple area.

“It’s something we need to have more dialogue about,” said Del Duca. “As MPP, I will continue to advocate to bring that to the community.”

Infrastructure is part of the government’s economic plan that is creating jobs, said Del Duca.

“What we’re trying to do is get people in Vaughan moving,” said Del Duca. “This is crucial infrastructure in a fast growing community like ours.”

Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua was also on hand for the announcement which he said is an example of the relationship between the Province and the municipality.

“It provides the best possible service and improves the quality of life for our citizens,” said Bevilacqua. “It’s a step in the right direction for transit.”

Since 2003, Ontario has invested approximately $9.1 billion in GO Transit to improve service and expand routes.

Commuters can also check online GO Transit schedules for more information.