Grey County To Decide On $9.5M Regional Transit Study Funding
Grey County may join partners in a proof-of-concept study for a unified transit system, with provincial funding covering most costs.
Grey County Council is considering whether to sign onto a $9.5 million provincial funding agreement to plan a unified regional transit network with neighbouring counties.
The proposal, outlined in a staff report scheduled for discussion on September 25, would see Grey partner with Bruce County, Dufferin County, Saugeen Mobility and Regional Transit (SMART), and Wellington County.
Together, the group would launch a proof-of-concept study examining how to merge existing services into a coordinated system with a single fare structure, shared fleet, and integrated booking software.
If approved, the study would run from fall 2025 through March 2026, with councils across the region expected to review recommendations in spring 2026. A new regional system could be in place as early as fall 2026, pending council approvals.
The provincial grant, under the Ontario Transit Investment Funding program, would cover most costs. Grey County’s levy contribution is forecast to rise from $101,300 this year to $145,000 in 2026, with a further increase anticipated in 2027.
Staff emphasized that no new service would launch until the study is complete and councils have signed off on the financial and service plan.
Next steps: County Council is scheduled to decide on the proposal September 25, unless the issue is deferred. This story will be updated with the outcome.