London, Ontario, May 21, 2010 - Ed Holder, Member of Parliament for London West, Khalil Ramal, the Member of Provincial Parliament for London-Fanshawe, Her Worship Anne Marie DeCicco-Best, Mayor of London and David Winninger, Chair of the London Transit Commission gathered at the main office of the London Transit Commission for the launch of "My Bus Info," the second phase of London Transit's implementation of smart bus technology.
"Improved public transit is critical to enhancing the quality of life for Londoners," said MP Ed Holder. "As we enter the second year of Canada's Economic Action Plan, our Government is proud to continue investing in modern infrastructure projects that create London jobs and boost the economy, both here and across Canada. By implementing smart bus technologies, our London Transit Commission will be able to provide more efficient service and increase the number of users."
"Through Ontario's dedicated Gas Tax Program and other funding, the provincial government is providing sustainable support that London can count on to improve its transit system," said MPP Ramal. "Our record investments in public transit, including more than $9.5 million in Gas Tax funding this year, are part of our Open Ontario plan. It is helping strengthen London's economy, improve air quality and build a stronger community."
"Federal and Provincial investment in London's public transit system is critical to maintaining and building ridership, service hours and supporting infrastructure," said David Winninger, Chair of the London Transit Commission. "We look forward to a continued partnership with the Federal and Provincial government in London's public transit service."
Her Worship Anne Marie DeCicco-Best, Mayor of London said, "Sustainable, predictable investment from the senior levels of government in London's public transit services is critical for continued growth. The investment is good for the economy, environment and community access."
Smart bus technology was first implemented on London Transit's buses in 2008. The new features, including interactive voice response and web-based travel information, automatic passenger counters on 43 buses, and the coordination of the bus fleet with London's traffic light system, will contribute to further improving the travel experience for users.
The implementation of Phase II was made possible thanks to a contribution of nearly $3.3 million from the 2006 federal Public Transit Capital Trust as well as $3.1 million provided by the Government of Ontario through its Dedicated Gas Tax Funds for Public Transportation (Gas Tax) Program.
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 as a means to reduce traffic congestion and emissions. Budget 2008 set aside an additional $500 million to support capital investments through the Public Transit Capital Trust. London Transit received approximately $4.2 million and $6 million respectively under the programs.
Since 2004, the Government of Ontario has committed $1.6 billion in provincial Gas Tax funding to 93 transit systems serving 119 communities, including nearly $48.5 million to the City of London. In total, since 2003, the Province has committed approximately $77.2 million to the City of London to improve and expand public transit.
For further information contact:
Office of Ed Holder M.P.
519-473-5955
Office of Khalil Ramal M.P.P.
519-668-1104
Infrastructure Canada
613-948-1148
London Transit Commission
Larry E. Ducharme
General Manager
519-451-1340 ext. 335
