Exactly one year ago in front of St. Thomas city hall, MPP Jeff Yurek announced the provincial government was committing $1.8 million for transit projects in St. Thomas. Yurek added, the transit projects were being nominated for federal funding under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. This morning, via teleconference, Catherine McKenna, federal Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, announced federal dollars for the transit upgrade were on the way. Money to be earmarked for the purchase of 14 zero-emission buses and other improvements to transit operations. A better ride for St. Thomas transit users, stressed McKenna.
Mayor Joe Preston reiterated his campaign promise of ensuring the city benefits from real transit during the term of this council.
Preston noted, including the municipal share, the total funding amount is $4.6 million, with $2.2 million from the federal government $1.8 in provincial dollars, which MPP Jeff Yurek announced a year ago in front of city hall.
Justin Lawrence, the city’s director of environmental service, says the next step is determining the right e-vehicle for St. Thomas.
Preston advised the transit upgrade will include 15 minute service on Talbot Street, route revisions, increased hours of operation and Sunday service.
