Ontario Construction News staff writer
More than $5.7 million has been announced for two projects that will modernize and improve accessibility for Peel Region’s public transit system.
The Government of Canada has earmarked $3.5 million through the Public Transit Infrastructure Stream (PTIS) of the Investing in Canada plan. The Government of Ontario is providing $3 million, and the Region of Peel is contributing more than $2.3 million.
- One project includes replacing specialized transit buses with 69 new, specialized, eight-metre buses as the current fleet reaches the end of its planned service lifecycle. New propane-powered buses, with side-mounted lifts, will provide accessible transit in Brampton, Mississauga, and Caledon, and are capable of carrying as many as six wheelchair passengers.
- The second project involves the adoption of the PRESTO electronic fare collection system across the Regional Municipality of Peel’s TransHelp fleet. This project includes the design, planning, purchase and hardware installation of up to 145 portable, tablet-based, electronic payment units.
“These investments will help make sure there’s accessible public transit, powered by lower-emissions propane, for residents across Peel Region, throughout Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon. Canada’s infrastructure plan invests in thousands of projects, creates jobs across the country, and builds cleaner, more inclusive communities,” said Catherine McKenna, federal minister of infrastructure and communities.
