No. H 002/09
For release - January 8, 2009
EDMONTON — The Honourable Rob Merrifield, Minister of State (Transport), announced today that the Government of Canada will invest in two projects in Alberta that support environmentally friendly transportation.
"These projects will help Albertans meet their transportation needs and lead to less congestion and fewer emissions," said Minister Merrifield. "Our government is committed to working with Alberta to support these initiatives."
The following projects have been selected for funding under Transport Canada's ecoMOBILITY program:
- Calgary Economic Development will receive a contribution of up to $800,000 for a project to foster teleworking in the business community.
- The City of Edmonton will receive up to $260,000 for a community pilot project that aims to promote flexible work hours and alternative modes of transport, such as walking, cycling, public transit and carpooling in a "demonstration neighbourhood" in the city.
"Our government is investing in the economic and environmental future of our country," said Canada's Transport Minister, John Baird. "Projects such as these will promote greener transportation alternatives while also stimulating our economy and creating jobs."
The ecoMOBILITY program works with provinces, municipalities and regional transportation authorities to help develop initiatives that encourage commuters to choose public transit or other alternatives to personal vehicles. Through the program, the government is taking action to find ways to meet transportation needs, reduce costs to Canadians and protect the environment.
This program is part of the Government of Canada's ecoTRANSPORT Strategy, which has three goals: 1) improving the health of Canadians and the environment by reducing the environmental impacts of transportation; 2) contributing to Canada's future prosperity and competitiveness by making critical transportation infrastructure sustainable both economically and environmentally; and 3) promoting an efficient transportation system that supports choice and the high quality of life Canadians expect.
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