Metrolinx is soon to introduce schedule adjustments that, combined, make for the largest shift to service in GO Transit history.

Starting September 5, increased service will be in affect across GO rail and bus routes. Metrolinx says the changes are of "significant" volume, service in the off-peak hours included.

The adjustment is coming in response to the expected demand stemming from the return to school and the workplace as Ontario continues on its recovery from COVID-19. Changes include schedule modifications -- including the including the return of some services suspended due to the pandemic -- and impacts to bus routes.

All train lines and most bus routes will be affected as Metrolinx restores or adjusts service to meet passenger demand. However, weekend service on the Barrie line won't restart until September 12; a result of ongoing construction.

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Here are some of the changes coming to major GO Transit lines:

  • GO is resuming some train service all week on the Lakeshore East and West lines to ensure customers have service every 15 to 30 minutes during rush hour, and hourly or better during midday, evenings and weekends.

  • Hamilton GO train customers will benefit from the reintroduction of two morning eastbound trips from West Harbour GO to Union Station and two afternoon westbound trips from Union Station back to West Harbour GO.

  • GO is resuming some rush hour service on all lines (Milton, Barrie, Kitchener, Stouffville, Richmond Hill) to ensure customers have hourly or better service during peak periods.

  • GO is bringing back weekend train service along the Stouffville GO line to give people the flexibility for weekend getaways.

  • Weekend train service along the Barrie GO line is back (and now throughout most of the day between Aurora and Toronto) on September 12 to give people the flexibility for weekend getaways.

    • The new GO Transit schedule, which outlines the (many) adjustments to GO bus services, is available for viewing in-full here.

    While many GO riders have been sheltering in place since mid-March, the transit agency has implemented a roster of "Safety Never Stops" measures, which aim to keep customers and transit staff safe. Policies, including the mandatory wearing of face-coverings, will carry over into the reintroduction of increased service.

    Additionally, customers will now find wayfinding markers and seat dividers on many vehicles, which will offer travellers further protection.

    Toronto