Please note that the information on this page is no longer up-to-date and remains available for reference purposes. For the latest project updates, please visit our Growing Together Engage Kitchener page.
One of the greatest aspects of the ION rapid transit system is the opportunity for us to enhance several pockets of our community.
This work, which is part of our Planning Around Rapid Transit Stations (PARTS) project, includes looking at appropriate land uses, streetscapes and infrastructure requirements to ensure the areas where stations are placed are well prepared and properly equipped.
We are developing a series of station area plans, which map out the work we need to accomplish. Each plan focuses on the unique aspects of each area, which can range from opportunities for pedestrian and cycling connections, road and parking implications, community infrastructure and public art opportunities.
Central Stations
With our Central Stations Study Area Plan, our goal is to address pedestrian, bicycle, transit, traffic and road issues within about a 10-minute walk of the six ION station stops in the Central Stations Study Area.
This has been a collaborative exercise involving various stakeholders, including property owners, residents, business owners, and development interests.
The PARTS Central Plan and recommendations for implementation have been approved by city council; implementation of the plan is now underway. At the same time, we're reviewing our secondary plans - a process we deferred until our station area planning process was complete.
Rockway Stations
There is a lot of development interest and redevelopment opportunity around the Rockway stations study area. However, only a small portion of the area can support redevelopment activity given its proximity to the nearby Schneider Creek floodplain. This adds complexity to the work program.
An innovative approach to redevelopment in and near the floodplain is outlined in the study, Update of Schneider Creek Floodplain Mapping & Two-Zone Policies.
The PARTS Rockway Plan has now been approved by city council.
Block Line Station
The Block Line Station Study Area Plan will be developed through a process involving a variety of stakeholders, including internal city staff, property owners, residents, external agencies and development interests. For more information on this project, check out our recommended work program.
Fairway Station
The Fairway Station Study Area Plan will be developed through a process involving a variety of stakeholders, including internal staff, property owners, residents, external agencies and development interests. For more information on this project, check out our recommended work program.
Midtown Station
The Midtown station study area borders on the City of Waterloo and planning in this area is being done with both City of Kitchener and Waterloo. The area has limited public open space and/or passive or active recreation opportunities compared to the other station study areas. These elements were considered through planning and consultation for this station study area.
The PARTS Midtown Plan has now been approved by city council.