The Township of Centre Wellington aims to enhance its public transit services and seeks input from the community on potential improvements. Earlier this year, the township secured a $50,000 grant from the federal government’s Rural Transit Solutions Fund to conduct a transit feasibility study.
Colin Baker, the managing director of infrastructure services for the township, informed council members that the study will evaluate factors such as population growth, employment trends up to 2051, and explore opportunities for transportation services. It will also assess connectivity to regional transit hubs in nearby communities and propose a recommended transit solution.
The study will analyze current mobility options, project future transit demand, develop a transit strategy, and estimate associated costs. It will build upon existing transit services in the township, including the Elora and Fergus downtown shuttle, Ride Well door-to-door transit, and the Guelph-Owen Sound Transit bus service.
The focus is on enhancing connections to key destinations based on community feedback. The study will also evaluate demand for service to areas like Guelph, Elmira, Belwood, Inverhaugh, and Wellington North. Mayor Shawn Watters emphasized the importance of transportation equity, especially for youth and those without personal vehicles, as the community grows and becomes more diverse.
Community engagement has begun with the launch of an online survey, and additional opportunities to interact with residents will be introduced in the upcoming months. Preliminary feedback highlights the community’s interest in improved connections to Guelph and between Fergus and Elora.
The township staff is expected to present recommendations to the council by May 2026, following ongoing community consultations and analysis.