Ottawa Transit Riders welcomes today's announcement by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that the federal government will be investing $14.9 billion for public transit projects over the next eight years, but calls on the government for dedicated, permanent federal funding for operational expenses.
This stable funding will help municipalities with their public transit infrastructure projects, including the purchase of zero-emission vehicles which will lower emissions and help combat climate change.
"This is a positive step forward for public transit in Ottawa. Reliable public transit will be an important part to Ottawa's recovery from COVID-19, and this announcement will help with public transit infrastructure projects in our city," said Stuart MacKay, a Board Member of Ottawa Transit Riders.
Over the past year, the organization's membership mobilized to urge the Prime Minister and the federal government to "Keep Transit Moving" by investing in public transit.
Ottawa Transit Riders remains committed to working with our Keep Transit Moving Coalition partners in advocating for permanent federal funding for public transit operations in Canada.
MacKay said that public transit systems nationwide are still facing massive revenue shortfalls due to pandemic-related ridership declines, and will still need help in the months ahead.
Ottawa Transit Riders will continue to advocate for permanent operational funding from the federal government so that public transit in Ottawa can be reliable, accessible, and affordable for all.
For more information, contact us at [email protected]
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