Transit trip planner coming in March while LRT start remains unclear

The Region of Waterloo will launch an online transit trip planner in March and open a customer service centre in the Frederick Street station in April before the official launch of the LRT.

But the day the LRT will start service is still to be decided, regional staff say.

In a report to the region's planning and works committee Tuesday, staff said they will promote the new services in preparation for the switch over to the LRT system and a grid network for buses. That will include staff standing at key locations, like Forest Glen plaza to explain the changes and how theywill impact riders.

Coun. Elizabeth Clarke said she was unaware a trip planner was being launchedbut thought it was a good idea.

"Our current system is a little complicated," she said noting the names of some stops have been changed, which could cause further confusion when the LRT starts.

• Read more about the LRT on CBC K-W

Internal testing of the online trip planning system is underway, but staff are hoping the public will log on in March, try it out and provide feedback.

Waterloo Mayor Dave Jaworsky asked when EasyGo would be available to all riders. Currently, university and college students are able to tap cards to get on the bus, as well asa few other riders testing the cards. Staff said it's anticipated the EasyGo cards will be rolled out to the general public in April.

Future of Charles Street terminalunclear

Coun. Sean Strickland and Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic also asked about the future of the Charles Street terminal.

Staff said it's still unclear whether GO Transit and Greyhound will continue to use the terminal when the LRT launches.

Strickland warned a decision needs to be made soon but he hopes those services can be accommodated.

Staff said it's also not clear what the future of the Charles Street terminal will be, whether they will use some of it or whether it will be decommissioned and sold.