Case Study: How Cambridge Is Preparing for Economic Growth with the New LRT Expansion
Background
Cambridge, Ontario, has a historic downtown core in Galt with charming architecture but also many underused and vacant spaces. Local businesses have long believed in the area’s potential but faced one persistent challenge: a lack of foot traffic. Despite approved developments nearby, many projects stalled, waiting for a catalyst to drive more people downtown.
The Change or Action
In July 2025, Ward 4 Councillor Ross Earnshaw — also a board member of the Downtown Cambridge BIA — publicly called for strong support of Phase 2 of the Light Rail Transit (LRT). Drawing from the success of the LRT in Kitchener-Waterloo, he highlighted how the extension to Cambridge would:
- Attract new investment into downtown Galt
- Increase connections across the region
- Encourage sustainable, transit-oriented development
- Boost small business activity by bringing more people into the core
The Results
While Phase 2 is still in planning, the precedent in Kitchener-Waterloo demonstrates what Cambridge businesses can expect:
- Billions of dollars in new investment around LRT stops
- Thousands of new housing units within walking distance of stations
- Increased municipal tax revenues
- Higher foot traffic and revitalized main streets
Approved development projects in downtown Galt are already lined up, ready to move forward once the LRT arrives. This positions local businesses to benefit from a surge in customers and tourism.
The Lesson or Takeaway
New transportation infrastructure doesn’t just move people — it drives economic transformation. For BIAs and councillors, early advocacy and planning are key. Cambridge shows how communities can leverage transit investments to unlock downtown revitalization, attract private development, and give local businesses the customer base they’ve been waiting for.