The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, alongside the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Regional Municipality of York, Wayne Emmerson announced a federal investment of $76 million to help York Region build an electric bus fleet and reach net-zero by 2050.
Supported by this funding, York Region will get 180 zero-emission buses, 91 battery electric chargers, and 14 on-route chargers. Provided through the federal government’s Zero Emission Transit Fund, these electric buses will be an innovative, zero-emission transit option that will help people get to work, reduce traffic congestion, and require less maintenance than traditional diesel buses. Once in service, the 180 buses are expected to reduce emissions by approximately 15,982 tonnes annually – the equivalent of taking 4,000 vehicles off our roads.
York Region’s three existing transit facilities that will house the zero-emission buses will also be upgraded with solar power and battery energy storage systems, further reducing emissions and growing clean-energy alternatives.
In addition to the federal investment, this project is supported by a $136 million loan announced last year by the Canada Infrastructure Bank. Together, this team effort will help York Region reduce emissions and offer a clean, reliable, and affordable transit option to the more than 1.25 million people who call the community home.
By investing in public transit, we are building stronger, fairer communities across the country. This is especially true when it comes to Millennial and Gen Z Canadians, many of whom rely on public transit. By growing public transit and reducing emissions, we’re giving younger Canadians a clean, affordable, and reliable option to get around. Alongside this, we’re cutting red tape, building more homes, modernizing infrastructure, and growing our economy. Our goal is clear – making sure our communities have the investments they need to succeed, now and for generations to come.
“Canadians need to get to work with less traffic, more comfort, and clean air – that’s what public transit is all about,” said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. “York Region will soon have 180 new zero-emission buses and the chargers to go with it. Our government is making our transit system fairer, with innovative, climate-friendly, and affordable options to get you where you need to be.”
The federal funding announced today is contingent on parties signing a contribution agreement.This project is also supported by an investment of $177 million from the Regional Municipality of York.
For further information, visit: Zero Emission Transit Fund
Featured image credit: Aurora Mayor Tom Mrakas / Facebook
