Marco D’Angelo
President & CEO, Canadian Urban Transit Association
According to a recent poll conducted by Léger Marketing, 86% of urban residents in Canada support more government investment in public transit. That’s a clear show of support for the benefits of transit, like reduced congestion and carbon emissions, job creation, and the fostering of social inclusion.
Those of us who already use public transit know it’s an affordable and safe mobility option that connects us to work, play, and social services. While trains and buses don’t always run without a hitch, the pros outweigh the cons when you consider that transit is much easier on the wallet and the environment than car ownership. Transit commuters can also spend more time with their families instead of behind the wheel.
Transit is steadily improving as systems increasingly prioritize innovation and the customer experience, aiming to provide optimal rides every day, on every route, on every vehicle. For example, in Vancouver a partnership between TransLink and Hyperlight Systems has led to the world’s first hands-free, touchless fare-gate solution to help people with disabilities experience more independence.
Systems are moving towards greening their fleets too. Since 2017, Québec-based Nova Bus has increased its production capacity and created 200 jobs, helping feed the growing demand for electric buses. This month, the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) rolled out its first electric bus, manufactured by Winnipeg-based New Flyer. Moving to alternative propulsion makes the TTC a leader in sustainable mobility.
Government investments in transit have contributed to innovative transportation infrastructure in the past. CUTA calls on the federal government to continue to fund transit capital and operational costs to meet the expectations of the Canadian public.
