Feds invest $14.9B to expand and advance public transit

Xcelsior CHARGE 60-ft Battery-Electric Transit Bus (CNW Group/NFI Group Inc.)

WINNIPEG, Man. — NFI Group Inc. has welcomed the Government of Canada’s announcement of an eight-year, $14.9 billion public transit funding program. The announcement, made by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Minister of Infrastructure and Communities Catherine McKenna, includes $5.9 billion in dedicated project funds starting in 2021, and ongoing permanent funding of $3 billion per year beginning in 2026-2027.

The announcement includes a focus on zero-emission and electric transit. Through its brands New Flyer, MCI, Alexander Dennis, and ARBOC, NFI has been leading the ZEvolutionTM to zero-emission mobility for decades. NFI is proud to offer Canada’s widest range of zero-emission vehicles and full suite infrastructure solutions, including battery-electric and fuel-cell-electric buses that together have driven more than 4.5 million miles in North America.

“The Canadian government is making good on its commitment to ‘build back better’ by investing in permanent and predictable public transit funding to help local governments plan current and future procurements,” said Paul Soubry, President and Chief Executive Officer, NFI, in a prepared statement. “We have worked closely with CUTA, CUTRIC, and Unifor to advocate and educate on zero-emission adoption. Together, we’re making safer, greener communities a reality for everyone.”

“The world of transportation is changing, and Canada is well positioned to be a leader in driving the evolution to zero-emission public transit,” said Chris Stoddart, President, New Flyer and MCI. “Net zero is achievable, and we look forward to supporting Canadian transit agencies as they deliver on the Government’s vision of a more sustainable, healthier environment for all.”