Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
MIDDLESEX COUNTY - County Council advanced several key transit-related decisions during its November 25 meeting, approving agreements that will support the long-term operation and expansion of Middlesex County Connect.
The first discussion centred on the Ontario Transit Investment Fund (OTIF). Director of Economic Development and Tourism Cara Finn outlined the scope of the recently approved provincial funding, telling council that the County had “received provincial approval through a successful application for up to $3.4 million in funding over five years… supporting the continuing operation and optimization of Middlesex County Connect from April of 2025 through March 2030.” She noted that OTIF covers half of eligible costs, while “the remaining 50%” would come from municipal contributions, fare and advertising revenue, and other external sources, including the Ontario Gas Tax Program.
The OTIF package includes four routes, among them the planned integration of Strathroy-Caradoc’s Route 4 beginning in January 2026. Finn explained that staff had secured “signed funding agreements with the City of Saint Thomas and the City of Sarnia,” while London’s contribution remained “pending council approval this week.” Other municipalities, including Woodstock, Ingersoll and Plympton-Wyoming, declined to participate financially.
During questions, Councillor Susan Clarke asked whether private businesses might be included in future funding models. Finn responded that there was “certainly consideration of including private business,” though the immediate focus was finalizing agreements with municipal partners. Councillor Aina DeViet later sought clarification on whether municipalities declining to fund the system would still see local service. Finn said existing stops would remain “for this given time frame,” with route optimization to occur later.
Council approved the recommendations, authorizing the OTIF transfer payment agreement, related municipal agreements, and the memorandum of understanding with Strathroy-Caradoc.
Council then turned to the Ontario Gas Tax Program. Community Transportation Project Manager Anum Maqsood said the program provides “ongoing provincial funding for municipalities operating transit services,” and confirmed Middlesex County’s eligibility for the 2025–26 year. Gas tax allocations are based on ridership and population, and only municipalities not already receiving funds can be counted toward the County’s total. Maqsood listed Strathroy-Caradoc, Middlesex Centre, North Middlesex, Lucan Biddulph, Adelaide Metcalfe and “potentially” the township of Southwold,” while noting that Thames Centre remains tied to St. Marys’ allocation unless it requests otherwise. The estimated County allocation for 2025–26 is “approximately $115,576.”
Council unanimously supported applying for the funding.
The final item involved the service operator agreement with Voyago. Finn reminded members that the system operates under a month-to-month contract until March 2026 and that OTIF funding includes the integration of Route 4. She added that Voyago had agreed to include the new route from January to March 2026 “ensuring continuity while we complete the procurement process for a long-term provider.” Council approved the by-law to authorize the amending agreement.
