Province Announces Funding to Improve Transit in Cape Breton

The province is investing in public transit in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM) to help address the growing demand from students and other riders.

CBRM will get $1.2 million to purchase six buses including five used and one new bus to complement its existing fleet.

“Strengthening transportation is a strategic investment in the economic and social development of communities,” said Leo Glavine, Minister of Communities, Culture and Heritage. “Transportation is essential for connecting people with jobs, schools and universities. It also allows people to remain in their homes as they age and access important services.”

In addition, Cape Breton University is receiving $300,000 toward a new on-campus bus shelter. The university has seen a significant increase in international student enrollment again this school year. Many of these students rely on public transit.

Quotes:

“This investment by the province further supports the hard work that has been done to improve CBRM’s transit service in the last number of years. We look forward to continuing to work with Cape Breton University, our local and provincial partners to expand and increase accessibility of this essential service for all residents.”

– Cecil Clarke, mayor, Cape Breton Regional Municipality

“Public transportation is so important for our students. This new bus shelter will help them be comfortable and better protected while using this essential service. We greatly appreciate the province’s investment in this project.”

– David Dingwall, president and vice-chancellor, Cape Breton University

“Investment in public transportation is important not only for international students but also for the community.”

– Parteek Brar, president, Cape Breton University Students’ Union

Quick Facts:

• in February 2019 the province provided CBRM with $250,000 for the purchase of three buses to add to its existing fleet
• improving access to community transportation is a cornerstone of government’s Poverty Reduction Blueprint and is identified as a priority in SHIFT – Nova Scotia’s Action Plan for an Aging Population

Additional Resources:

Transportation Action Plan: https://cch.novascotia.ca/investing-in-our-future/community-transportation-action-plan-strengthening-communities-through-transportation

Nova Scotia Culture Action Plan: https://novascotia.ca/culture/

Cape Breton Regional Municipality Transit: https://cbrm.ns.ca/transit.html