Sleek new zero-emission buses, transit software, and upgraded passenger amenities are part of a facelift coming to public transit systems across southwestern Ontario.
Federal Infrastructure and Communities Minister Catherine McKenna announced $6.7 million in funding on Wednesday for 11 transit projects in St. Thomas, Woodstock, West Elgin, Chatham-Kent, LaSalle, Hanover, Point Edward, and Leamington.
"It's really about how do we ensure people can get around faster, cleaner and in an affordable way. We know the people... need affordable, reliable, safe public transit and we need to focus on how we are moving forward to a low carbon future," said McKenna.
The money is in addition to $5.6 million from the province and $3.9 million from the municipalities for the modernization and improvement of transit. It will see St. Thomas add 14 new zero-emission buses to its fleet, along with new software systems and upgraded passenger amenities. Through this, service in the city will be expanded with buses running earlier in the morning, later in the day and on Sundays.
Chatham-Kent will be able to expand service with the addition of ten new vehicles and will upgrade its system to include real-time location technology and fare system technology. Its main bus terminal will be upgraded to include a fully accessible, enclosed waiting area. Six solar-powered bus shelters will be installed in the region.
Leamington will use its share of the funding to replace two old buses with new ones that offer more seating, while the Town of LaSalle will add ten bike lockers at various locations as a way of encouraging active transport.
Hanover will up its transit system's capacity with 11 new vehicles and Point Edward will add and resurface pedestrian and bike paths.
In an effort to improve accessibility, West Elgin will add a new paratransit van with a wheelchair lift. Woodstock will get two new buses and expand its bus garage and storage facility, as well as add an automated washing area, which officials said would extend the lifespan of the buses.
"These measures will help Canadians get around in cheaper, cleaner, and faster ways," said McKenna. "The investments in new buses, better public transit software, solar-powered bus shelters and other measures will improve the quality of lives to our residents, get cars off the road and help make these systems cleaner and quieter."
The focus on better public transit by both the federal and provincial levels of government was applauded by Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff.
"By helping us purchase vehicles, rehabilitate our shelters and upgrade our technology, Infrastructure Canada is an important partner in providing this vital service to our residents. We are extremely grateful for the support and partnership," Canniff said in a statement.