Listen Live

BC Transit, TransLink receive more than $200 million in pandemic relief funding

A combined $204 million will be given to BC Transit and TransLink in pandemic relief funding.

The announcement from the provincial government comes as TransLink reports ridership has recovered to around 67 per cent of pre-pandemic levels. BC Transit also reports a similar number at 70 per cent.

Of the funding, BC Transit will receive $28 million while TransLink will receive $176 million. The province says the funding is to help offset revenue impact as ridership rebuilds. They add it builds on $1 billion in funding provided in September 2020 to TransLink, BC Transit and BC Ferries.

They say the investment will be important to rebuild the economy, getting citizens reliable transport to commute to and from work.

“This $204-million support for transit will mean that British Columbians can get around in a cleaner and more affordable way,” said Harjit S. Sajjan, federal minister of international development. “As we continue our recovery, support like this will maintain good, middle-class jobs and sustain a critical service to the public.”

The BC Urban Mayors Caucus said in a statement Tuesday they welcome the funding as the province recovers from the pandemic.

“Affordable, reliable and accessible public transit is critical to the economic, social and environmental future of our cities,” said the caucus. “Investing in sustainable transportation has never been more important for economic recovery to ensure our residents can get to work, school and appointments.”

The funding is split between the federal and provincial governments. The federal government provided $102 million, which was matched by the province and brought the total to $204 million.

Continue Reading

cfcp Now playing play

- Advertisement -

Related Articles

- Advertisement -

Latest News

Canada Post to resume limited service as CUPW shifts to rotating strikes Oct. 11

Canada Post says it will begin restarting mail operations this weekend as the Canadian Union of Postal Workers shifts from a national walkout to rotating strikes.

Lewis Centre squash court upgrades underway

The City of Courtenay is serving up some good news for local squash enthusiasts.

CVRD warning residents about potential utility bill disruptions due to Canada Post strike

The ongoing Canada Post strike may affect the Comox Valley Regional District’s (CVRD) ability to distribute bills. 

CVRD issues warning on fireworks ahead of Halloween season

As Halloween draws closer, the Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) is sending an annual reminder about setting off fireworks. 

B.C. and Alberta saw largest rent declines as prices fall across Canada, says report

British Columbia and Alberta saw the largest declines in the price of apartment rentals over the past year, although B.C. remained the most expensive province for renters.
- Advertisement -