As snow falls and accumulates in Waterloo Region, Grand River Transit works with our partners to ensure our transit network remains accessible to you.
The scoop on snow clearing
- Contractors clear more than 2,500 bus stops, stations and shelter locations, plus 19 ION stations in GRT's service area.
- GRT waits 24 hours after a snow event to start clearing stops and stations. This allows roads and sidewalks to be cleared first. Clearing stops before roads and sidewalks have been cleared would mean many stops could be buried again by plows.
- Contractors salt and sand stops proactively when the forecast calls for freezing rain or flash freezing.
- Contractors have up to 48 hours after a snow event to clear stops/shelters and stations. They are often out in the early hours of the morning when there is less traffic.
- Depending on the severity or length of the snow event, road plows may go by stops repeatedly to clear snow. Contractors will then go out again to check on stops.
If it has been more than 48 hours since a snow event and you notice a stop, shelter or station that hasn't been cleared yet, call 519-585-7555 or fill out the feedback form.
| Location | Who is responsible | When snow clearing happens |
| Bus stops | Cleared by GRT contractors | Starting 24 hours after a snow event; can take up to 48 hours |
| ION stations | Cleared by Keolis contractors | Starting 24 hours after a snow event; can take up to 48 hours |
| Sidewalks | Cleared by the business, property owner or the relevant city. | Within 24 hours for property owners; within 48 hours for cities |
Winter maintenance repairs
To report damage due to snow clearing around a bus stop, fill out the online form or call 519-585-7555.
Non-critical damage will be repaired at the end of the winter season. Repairs will usually begin in April and will be completed by the end of May.