Windsor, Nova Scotia, February 4, 2008 - Residents in Hants County can now take advantage of new transit services offered by Kings Transit Authority, following the arrival today of two new buses. The purchase of the buses was made possible thanks to $260,000 from the Government of Canada's Public Transit Fund. In addition, a further $50,000 contribution from the Public Transit Fund means a new video surveillance system can be installed on all Kings Transit buses to ensure the safety and security of transit riders.
Gerald Keddy, Member of Parliament for South Shore-St. Margaret's, on behalf of the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, along with the Honourable Jamie Muir, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations, and Diana Brothers, member of the Kings Transit Board of Directors, participated in today's announcement.
The introduction of these new buses allows Kings Transit to extend service through Hants County by creating two new routes, spanning more than 60 kilometres. The buses will provide public transit options to residents previously dependent on personal vehicles to get around.
"These buses will truly benefit all members of the community, improving accessibility, flexibility and mobility for everyone," said Mr. Keddy. "The Government of Canada knows that reliable and efficient public transit is essential to ensuring sustainable and healthy communities, and that's why transit projects are a priority. Funding these buses is just one way the Government is addressing the infrastructure needs of small communities across the nation, while contributing to a better environment."
The buses are equipped with special features designed to better accommodate seniors and people with disabilities. An external bicycle rack is also available to carry two bicycles. These smaller, more fuel-efficient buses also take advantage of the latest diesel emission technology and operate on low sulphur fuel.
"We are committed to improving the environmental sustainability of our communities and our province," said Mr. Muir. "By working with our federal and municipal counterparts, we will invest in environmental improvements that will enhance the lives of Nova Scotians."
These new buses are the result of the cooperation of multiple partners, including the Town of Hantsport, the Town of Windsor, the Municipality of West Hants, and the County of Kings. They all worked together in recognition of the importance of transit for the sustainability and prosperity of local communities.
"Kings Transit gratefully acknowledges the support of the Public Transit Fund which made the purchase of these two new buses and the new security camera system for our fleet possible," said Ron Mullins, General Manager, Kings Transit Authority. "This fund highlights all level of governments' commitment to transit and the sustainability of our communities."
Through its unprecedented $33-billion Building Canada infrastructure plan, the Government of Canada is providing long-term, stable and predictable funding to help meet infrastructure needs across Canada. Building Canada will support a stronger, safer and better country. The province of Nova Scotia signed a framework agreement with the Government of Canada on November 9, 2007, providing Nova Scotia communities with access to more than $750 million between 2007 and 2014.
The $400 million Public Transit Fund is just one component of Building Canada. These funds are allocated to provinces and territories on a per capita basis and support projects with positive environmental effects, such as cleaner air and lowered green house gas emissions.
