advertisement

---

A survey of technology companies in the Waterloo, Ontario, region shows overwhelming support for a light-rail system, according to Communitech, a nonprofit organization that supports more than 700 technology firms in the region.

Of the 570 respondents to Communitech’s survey, about 90 percent believed that light rail is very or somewhat important to their company and co-workers; 70 percent said light rail would benefit the region overall; and more than 50 percent stated they would use a light-rail system if it’s constructed. Many respondents also believed light rail could alleviate current parking woes in the area.

"This is a clear endorsement by the people who power our tech ecosystem that light-rail transit is a priority for them," said Communitech President and Chief Executive Officer Iain Klugman in a prepared statement. "As one of Canada's leading tech clusters, this community needs to support existing workers and attract new talent by implementing fast, clean, green and affordable transit solutions."

Communitech has formally endorsed a light-rail transit option for the region. The organization plans to convey its survey results to all elected officials before an anticipated June 15 vote on a final decision for a regional rapid transit system along a 19-mile corridor linking the cities of Kitchener and Waterloo, and extending south to Cambridge. The proposed light-rail line would be integrated with GO Transit and VIA Rail Canada Inc. lines, and express and intercity bus services.