Snow clearing at region’s bus stops ‘falling short of expectations’
Posted Jan 13, 2026 03:28:29 PM.
Last Updated Jan 13, 2026 03:58:41 PM.
Frequent transit riders know how difficult it can be to navigate around or over snowbanks at bus stops.
Imagine trying to do that in a wheelchair.
A local accessibility advocate is shining a light on a problem that affects any transit user with a mobility issue. It’s a problem that is brought up each winter, but with back-to-back snowstorms and fairly regular accumulation so far this year, uncleared bus stops have become more common.
Edward Faruzel, Executive Director, KW AccessAbility was a guest on The Mike Farwell Show and said that when access is limited to transit, it essentially traps people in their homes.
“When people don’t clear the sidewalks and clear the bus stops, it’s impossible for someone with a disability to get around. It almost reminds me of back five, six years ago, when COVID was here. People are stuck in their apartments. They can’t go anywhere. It’s awful.”
Grand River Transit contracts out snow clearing and has a mandate to ensure all stops and stations are cleared within 48 hours of a snowfall ending. It seems reasonable given that there are over 2,500 transit stops in Waterloo Region.
By comparison, homeowners are given 24 hours to clear sidewalks or risk a visit from bylaw.
Faruzel said GRT regularly misses that 48-hour target, saying they need some help.
“The cities and the municipalities might have to step in and help out a little more. I know they use contractors, and the contractors are swamped with all the other people, too. I think definitely the Region and the cities need to step up to the plate.”
570 NewsRadio reached out to GRT, which returned with a statement that reads:
“The start of the winter bus station and stop clearing did not meet our expectations. As a result, GRT reworked agreements with our contractors to address performance. Despite back-to-back snowfalls and early performance issues, stop clearing is improving.
As a reminder, 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 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.”
Faruzel said there is a role for riders to play here as well. He’s encouraging anyone who faces a barrier accessing transit to reach out.
“People who are facing these issues need to get on the phone and call bylaw. If there is an issue, don’t be shy, say ‘Hey, I can’t get around.'”
GRT, in that same statement echoed Fauzel’s sentiments.
“If it has been more than 48 hours since a snow event and a stop, shelter or station hasn’t been cleared yet, call 519-585-7555 or fill out the feedback form.“
