302A - Ion At Work in Supporting Growth Management in Waterloo Region

October 13, 2021

10:30AM - 11:00AM

As one of Canada’s fastest growing CMAs and top start-up ecosystems, the Region of Waterloo is proud to present an interactive training session focused on the ION LRT Phase 1 19-km route and its ongoing 17-km Phase 2 study expansion. The Region has been monitoring change along the corridor since 2011 and will speak to some of the significant changes experienced with focus on the economic drivers for growth management and transit ridership. The combination of incentives, market conditions, and effective land use policies supported by a compelling economic vision linked with the Toronto-Waterloo intermodal connection has leveraged $3.2B in construction activity on a $1B investment shared by the Region, Province, and federal government. As a long-term growth strategy, the ION LRT is helping to unlock properties for intensification and mixed-use development with lessons learned, including rising affordability challenges.
 
The session includes an opportunity for the exchange of ideas and opinions on a range of topics: Why LRT, planning policy, key trends (including housing costs), and economic development with forward-thinking solutions to support a vibrant economy during a pandemic. With years of strategic incentives, the ability to provide housing and jobs along the ION LRT system is contributing to the economy recovery in Waterloo Region.
 
The learning outcomes include:
 
          Policy framework and incentives to support the LRT;
          Development trends and best practices along the LRT system; and 
          Economic drivers, and outcomes, of the LRT system.

Speakers