The Region of Waterloo has selected "ION" as the new brand name for its future LRT system.

After over 500 names were proposed and collected by the community, ION and "The Wave" were the two remaining names on the region's short-list.

The region says of 305 people surveyed in public consultations, 66 per cent thought ION suited the brand values outlined for the LRT by staff.

A report to the region says that the name reflects "the tech-savvy nature" of Waterloo Region.

Regional Councillor Sean Strickland says he's pleased with the choice.

"It's futuristic, it actually means 'going' in Greek." said Strickland. "I also think it's iconic and it will stand up against transportation systems around the world."

The name will go for final approval at regional council on April 30.

Construction for stage 1 of the LRT between Conestoga Mall and Fairview Park Mall is expected to begin in 2014. The region plans to have that line finished and operational by 2017.