Canadian government officials have announced new funding to improve public transit in British Columbia, including the purchase of cleaner buses.
Justin Trudeau, Canada’s prime minister, made the announcement on Thursday along with John Horgan, premier of British Columbia, and Erinn Pinkerton, CEO of BC Transit. The C$79 million in joint funding includes C$16 million in contributions from municipalities.
The funds will be used to purchase 118 new buses for use in Victoria and other communities across British Columbia. The new buses are designed to help shorten daily commutes, reduce the number of cars on the road and make the province a greener place to live.
The new buses will replace others at the end of their life cycle or increase capacity in communities where ridership is growing. The investment includes funding for 10 long-range electric buses, which will provide greener transportation options in Greater Victoria, which is also getting 21 compressed natural gas buses, according to the Times Colonist.
“Public transit infrastructure is vital to building strong, sustainable communities where all residents have access to essential services and opportunities and businesses can thrive,” says François-Philippe Champagne, minister of infrastructure and communities. “This investment in modern, ecofriendly vehicles serving communities across British Columbia will ensure that public transit services can continue to provide convenient, accessible transportation options that will improve the quality of life for residents today and contribute to a greener future.”
The transportation sector accounts for 25% of Canada’s emissions, the government says.