Go Transit marked the start of construction on a new bus storage and maintenance facility in East Gwillimbury, which allows easy access to Highway 404 to meet increased demand for GO express service.

The new facility will include indoor bus storage for up to 36 buses and outdoor storage for four buses; indoor service bays for fueling, bus wash, inspection, cleaning and running repairs; building service support areas including equipment and storage rooms; and staff facilities and parking.

“The addition of a new GO Bus maintenance facility will provide long-term support for the growth, expansion and flexibility of GO Bus service in York Region, another example of The Big Move in action,” said Gary McNeil, GO Transit president.

The facility will aim to achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification through the use of energy efficient systems, such as bus wash water recycling and other green initiatives. It will also feature an on-site fuelling station that will result in less travelling for buses not in service, saving money, time and reducing gas emissions. The expected completion date for this project is June 2014.

The total cost of the project is estimated at $20.5 million. The Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario are each contributing up to $9.05 million, funded through the GO Transit Improvement Program, a $500-million joint investment announced by the federal and provincial governments. The Government of Ontario through Metrolinx is contributing the remaining amount.