News Release: Eves government expands GO train service on Milton line

For Immediate Release
August 30, 2002

Eves government expands GO train service on Milton line

TORONTO — Commuters using the Milton GO Train line will benefit from the introduction of a new morning and afternoon train, Transportation Minister Norm Sterling, Halton MPP Ted Chudleigh and Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) announced today.

The new trains will be introduced September 3, 2002, under GO Transit's agreement with CPR, which operates Milton GO Train service. The addition will bring the total number of peak-period trains on the line to 12, with six morning and afternoon trains.

"Making transit more convenient and comfortable helps attract more riders," Sterling said. "This initiative is part of the Ontario government's plan to create an efficient transit system that helps to tackle gridlock and supports our Smart Growth objectives."

Service on the Milton corridor began in 1981, with three morning and three afternoon trains. In 1989, GO Transit increased service to include five morning and five afternoon trains. Since 1989, ridership has more than tripled, from 6,000 to 20,000 per day.

"This is wonderful news for Milton GO riders," said Halton MPP Ted Chudleigh. "Convenient commuter rail transit to Toronto is important to many Milton residents, and key to reducing automobile traffic and congestion."

The agreement with CPR covers train-crew personnel and rush-hour track access on the line between Milton and Toronto's Union Station. Part of that line also carries vital freight services through the Greater Toronto Area to and from Montreal and the Canada-U.S. border at Windsor. CPR also supports commuter rail operations in Montreal, Ottawa, Vancouver and Chicago.

"Whenever I can tell you that improvements are coming to GO facilities or services, I'm happy," said GO Transit Chairman Dr. Gordon Chong. "Every little bit helps, and we're always proud to make commuting a little easier for people."

GO Transit is Ontario's only inter-regional public transit system and carries more than 43 million passengers a year, linking Toronto with the surrounding regions of the Golden Horseshoe Area.

The Ontario government has taken a lead role in promoting a balanced and integrated transportation system — in line with Ontario's Smart Growth objectives of sustaining a strong economy, building strong communities and ensuring a clean and healthy environment.