Stratford's mayor is calling it a "huge win."
Starting July 6, daily Go train service will be extended to the city.
The provincial government made the announcement Friday morning, stating that the daily round trips between Stratford and Toronto will relieve gridlock and connect more people to jobs, education, and tourism.
"This permanent service is a huge win for our residents for both recreational and employment travel, for our student population, and for the thousands of tourists making their way to Stratford," said Mayor Martin Ritsma. "It is also a big win for our environment as we continue our work to reduce automobile traffic on local highways and on the 400 highway series. This is a major win on so many fronts, and I will sleep well tonight."
On weekdays, the train will leave from Stratford Station in the morning, making stops in Kitchener, Guelph, Acton, Georgetown and Brampton before arriving at Toronto's Union Station. It will then return to Stratford in the afternoon.
On weekends, the route flips, leaving from Toronto in the morning and returning from Stratford later the same day.
Ontario Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria, who along with Metrolinx CEO Michael Lindsey and Perth-Wellington MPP Matthew Rae were on hand for the announcement, noted the schedule will allow for a mix of business and pleasure.
"Bringing GO service to Stratford will make it easier for people to travel to Toronto for work, school and tourism, while also giving Ontarians and visitors a convenient new way to experience Stratford’s world-class attractions and culture," said Sarkaria.
He added that the new service will help drive economic growth to Stratford for years to come.
