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2008 Federal Budget
Federal Budget Takes Major Positive Steps to Support Transit
OTTAWA - The Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) is delighted that today's Budget commits significant new support to invest in public transit infrastructure.
"The allocation of $500 million in 2007-08, dedicated to public transit,
is a major boost to future access and mobility in Canadian communities", says
CUTA President and CEO, Michael Roschlau. "Extending the Gas Tax Fund as a
permanent measure is an excellent response to the ongoing needs for municipal
infrastructure investment. This is a good news budget for transit", added
Roschlau.
"Today's budget does not, however, put in place long-term, dedicated
funding specifically for public transit", says CUTA Chair Penny Williams.
"That will require the implementation of a well coordinated National Transit
Strategy."
CUTA's recent survey of Canadian transit systems reported a $40.1 billion
need for public transit's capital infrastructure for the period 2008-2012 for
the maintenance and upkeep of the current systems, and for transit expansion
to accommodate more riders.
"CUTA will continue to work on behalf of its members in meeting the
growing mobility needs of Canadians", concludes Williams. "A partnership
between all orders of government in creating a true National Transit Strategy
will ensure long-term, predictable funding for all communities."
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