Province Introduces Sustainable Transport Program

Communities throughout the province will be able to make transportation more sustainable, active and accessible through a new pilot program.

The Nova Scotia Moves sustainable transportation pilot program will offer grants to local groups, including municipalities, band councils, community benefit organizations and social enterprises.

"By helping communities develop cleaner, more accessible and more convenient transportation options, people can choose to drive less and move more," said Energy Minister Charlie Parker. "These options are important given rising fuel costs and our need to stay active and healthy."

Potential projects could range from expanded community transit services in rural areas to infrastructure improvements for pedestrian and bike safety.

"Nova Scotians want to be able to make better transportation decisions that, over the long term, are healthier for them and the environment," said Environment Minister Sterling Belliveau. "This pilot program allows us to work with municipalities, community groups, and others to help make that happen."

The province consulted with a number of municipalities, environmental organizations and transit-oriented community groups to design and ensure the program responds to people's needs.

Kathy Gamache, chair of Community Transit Nova Scotia, says the group appreciates the collaborate approach.

"Community Transit Nova Scotia is pleased that the province's work on sustainable transportation continues to move forward the ideas set out in Making the Connection, our discussion document created by a provincial task force and released in June 2012," said Ms. Gamache. "Access to provincial funding, such as the Nova Scotia Transportation Research Incentive Program, ensures the volunteers and non-profit groups working at the community level receive the support and resources they need."

The deadline for applications is Dec. 21. Successful projects will be announced in January, with a second call for applications expected early in the new year.

For more information on the Nova Scotia Moves program, visit www.gov.ns.ca/energy/nsmoves/.