Winter and snow clearing
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 GRT customer feedback form.
Who clears what?
| 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 GRT customer feedback 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.
Transit severe weather events
During heavy snowfall or freezing rain conditions, GRT may declare a transit severe weather event. When a severe weather event is declared, a number of bus routes will go on detour and stops will be closed.
The aim is to minimize service interruptions by routing buses around problem areas where vehicles can get stuck in snow or icy conditions.
Transit severe weather events will be posted at grt.ca/alerts.
Stops that are closed during a severe weather event have a special blue sign below the stop marker.
Winter safety
Tips for taking transit in winter:
- GRT buses will continue to operate in winter weather conditions, except when roads are closed/impassable or detours are needed.
- Allow more time for travel, as buses may be delayed in poor driving conditions and remember to dress warmly.
- If your bus stop is on a hill or steep slope, walk to the next stop at the bottom or top of the hill so that the bus can safely stop to pick you up.
- Tread carefully in snow and ice and stand back from the curb until the bus comes to a complete stop so as to avoid sliding or slipping under the bus.
- Keep in mind your bus may not pull all the way over to the curb, to avoid getting stuck. You may have to step into the road to board.
- Remember to look up for approaching vehicles when crossing intersections or ION tracks.
- Help us see you at night. Wear light coloured clothing, reflectors or lights.