Federal Public Transit Capital Trust at Work in Kings County

Purchase of Minibus Makes Transit Accessible for All

Wolfville, Nova Scotia, October 2, 2009 – Residents of Kings County will benefit from the purchase of a new wheelchair accessible minibus, thanks in part to an investment from the federal Public Transit Capital Trust.

“Today's announcement is an example of our government's commitment to improving and strengthening Canadian communities,” said Greg Kerr, Member of Parliament for West Nova. “Enhancing public transit access improves services and promotes safety and inclusivity. The Government of Canada is proud to help fund this new minibus, which will contribute to the mobility of disabled residents of region of Kings County.”

The total purchase cost of the 2009 Girardin GMC minibus was $89,103 with the Government of Canada contributing more than $29,000 through the 2006 Public Transit Capital Trust. The province of Nova Scotia contributed $20,000 through the Accessible Transportation Assistance Program and $25,000 through the Conserve Nova Scotia Green Mobility Fund. The Eastern Kings Memorial Health Foundation funded the remaining $15,009.

“We will continue to partner with the federal and municipal governments to help ensure that important projects such as the launch of this accessible minibus become a reality,” said the Honourable Ramona Jennex, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. “This project represents another step in building a greener future for all.”

“Kings Para-Transit is delighted to acquire the new Girardin minibus. This new vehicle expands our capacity to offer improved service for all Kings County residents,” said Naomi Blanchard, Chair of the Board of Directors Kings Para-Transit Society.

The Government of Canada is making investments in infrastructure to stimulate the economy, create jobs and provide long-term community benefits. Budget 2006 provided a one-time payment to provinces and territories through the $900 million Public Transit Capital Trust in support of capital investments in public transit and infrastructure both as a means to reduce traffic congestion and to reduce carbon dioxide and other emissions. Budget 2008 set aside an additional $500 million to support capital investments through the Public Transit Capital Trust.

Please visit www.infrastructure.gc.ca for background information on the Canada – Nova Scotia Agreement on the Transfer of Federal Public Transit funds 2006-2010.

For further information contact:

Chris Day
Press Secretary
Office of Canada's Transport and Infrastructure Minister
613-991-0700

Infrastructure Canada
613-948-1148