Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Government of Ontario says it will contribute $5 million annually to enhance transit services in smaller communities across the province.
“No matter where you live, Ontarians deserve reliable public transportation to access jobs, connect with loved ones and lead healthy, independent lives,” Minister of Transportation Prabmeet Sarkaria said in a statement. “The Ontario Transit Investment Fund is a targeted initiative aimed at improving the lives of people living in the north, rural areas and communities with limited transit options.”
Funding will be directed toward municipalities, Indigenous communities and non-profit organizations that provide transit services in unserved and underserved regions, particularly in rural areas. It aims to support local and inter-community transit projects, including bus services, on-demand shared rides and door-to-door transportation.
“The Ontario Transit Investment Fund is a significant advancement in enhancing connectivity for residents in rural and underserved regions,” said Kevin Holland, MPP for Thunder Bay-Atikokan. “In northwestern Ontario, where many communities lack public transportation, this program will create new opportunities for residents to access services, visit family and connect with larger urban centres.”
Applications for the Ontario Transit Investment Fund will be accepted on an ongoing basis, with projects expected to launch in 2025.
“As we work toward connecting northern and First Nation communities, our government understands that reliable transportation requires innovative solutions. Addressing the unique needs of rural and remote regions in Ontario is essential, and the Ontario Transit Investment Fund provides an important opportunity for municipalities and service providers in the north,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development and Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation.
