New vehicles will be entering Halifax Transit’s paratransit fleet following the announcement that the federal government of Canada and the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) will finance the purchase.
Infrastructure Canada, which made the announcement, says that strategic investments in public transit infrastructure plays a key role in supporting efficient, affordable and sustainable transportation services that help Canadians and their families get to work, school and essential services on time and safely back home at the end of a long day.
"The federal government is proud to partner with Halifax on this project. Upgrading public transit infrastructure helps our cities provide efficient and reliable services that transform the way Canadians live, move and work. By putting these new paratransit buses on the road in Halifax, we will improve the commute of thousands of Halifax Transit riders every day," said Andy Fillmore, Member of Parliament for Halifax, on behalf of the Honorable Bernadette Jordan, Minister of Rural Economic Development.
The governments of Canada and the Halifax Regional Municipality are both investing more than C$940,000 (US$718,559) through the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund, which will allow the purchase of 13 paratransit buses to replace existing fleet vehicles. Two additional paratransit vehicles will also be purchased to allow for the expansion of paratransit services.
Stakeholders explain that these newer and additional buses will ensure that Halifax Transit can continue to provide inclusive, efficient and safe public transit services to all members of the HRM.
"I take great pride in knowing that together with our federal partners, we are making meaningful investments in accessibility that help create a more inclusive Halifax,” said Mayor of the Halifax Regional Municipality Mike Savage. “The true measure of success for any city is in the quality of community it creates for everyone, and this investment helps bring us closer to the goal of being a city where all residents can move freely and economically throughout their community."
Halifax Transit says the buses will improve passenger experience, meet increasing ridership needs and support a more sustainable and accessible transit system.
"Halifax Transit is committed to continuing to find innovative solutions that result in a more user-friendly, reliable, accessible and inclusive transit system. Today's announcement will help us achieve these goals," said Director of Halifax Transit Dave Reage.
