In June 2016, the Province formally announced the extension of GO train service to Niagara with stops in Grimsby by 2021, and St. Catharines and Niagara Falls by 2023.
Initiated in 2015, the Niagara GO Hub and Transit Stations Study is building upon the completed 2011 Niagara Rail Expansions Environmental Study Review that had identified opportunities for GO Hub and Transit Station areas in Niagara.
The intent of the study is to ensure that both short and long-term growth expectations around the areas is appropriately planned, accommodated and managed.
The anticipated growth that will occur around each of the stations is being planned and accommodated through two delineated boundaries:
These boundaries were identified and determined through an in-depth analysis of findings as described within the Phase 1 Study Context and Site Review.
Study / secondary plan areas contain lands anticipated to be influenced by growth pressure stimulated from the introduction of the GO hub and transit station. These lands need a careful and well-thought vision and planning framework for both short- and long-term needs.
Visions for the following elements will be addressed for lands within the secondary plan boundary:
Transit station areas are where the transit station and its facilities, including parking and operations, will be constructed. The GO trains will arrive and leave from this location.
Locations for each transit station serve a critical function in the regional transportation system as the origin, destination, or transfer point for a significant portion of trips.
The transit station area boundary is most influenced by access to rapid transit services with high levels of pedestrian activity. The area also need to balance many modes of access to the station.
The property should have enhanced traveller amenities, including:
Interim Study Report - September 2016
The purpose of this report is to provide a summary of key findings from Phase 1 which focused on:
Niagara Region concluded its Hub and Transit Stations Study in August 2018. The four GO Transit Station Secondary Plans created as part of the study are a significant achievement for us and our local municipal partners as Niagara prepares for the arrival of daily GO Train service.
View Secondary Plans, including relevant background information.
In September 2011, Metrolinx released a document titled, "Mobility Hub Guidelines for the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area". It outlines a best practices framework for successful planning and implementation of GO hubs and transit station areas.
Niagara Region has consulted with and adopted these guidelines throughout the study process to ensure innovative and leading edge practices are used at the future GO hub and transit station areas.
The guidelines highlight station area planning objectives that are summarized into three categories.
Seamless mobility will be achieved through addressing the following elements:
Placemaking will be achieved through addressing the following elements: