Metrolinx is beginning the Transit and Rail Project Assessment Process (TRPAP) for the section between Bramalea and Georgetown GO stations (known as the Halton subdivision), as part of the Kitchener Extension. 

This phase is an important step in the process required before construction can begin. The TRPAP is an accelerated, streamlined environmental assessment process for public transit and rail projects in Ontario that must be completed before major construction can begin. 

During the TRPAP, Metrolinx will complete a range of studies and engagement activities, including: 

• Environmental studies
• Assessment of potential impacts of the proposed work
• Identification of mitigation measures
• Engagement with communities, stakeholders and Indigenous partners

Delivering two-way, all-day service on the Kitchener Line is a complex, multi-year undertaking that requires significant infrastructure upgrades across the entire corridor. To support this level of service, improvements must be made to both Metrolinx-owned and CN-owned sections of track. 

Today, service increases are constrained by key bottlenecks. Portions of the line, particularly between Bramalea and Georgetown GO stations, are owned by CN and are heavily used by freight trains. In addition, large segments of the line remain single-track, limiting the ability to run frequent service in both directions. 

Upgrading and expanding this infrastructure, including adding new track, is an important step to enable more flexible and reliable service in the future. 

Last year, Metrolinx and CN signed an Agreement in Principle for Metrolinx to purchase this portion of the Kitchener Line. This agreement supports future service improvements and the infrastructure work now advancing through the TRPAP phase. Learn more about how a recent agreement with CN lays the foundation for two-way, all-day service on the Kitchener Line. 

These investments will improve travel along the Kitchener Line over time, including more options and improved reliability.