Government of Canada invests in infrastructure improvements at VIA Rail's London and Sarnia Stations
News Release
September 12, 2016 – London, Ontario – Transport Canada
The Government of Canada recognizes the importance for Canadian travellers to access a national rail transportation service that is safe, secure, efficient, reliable, and environmentally sustainable, and that meets their needs.
Kate Young, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport and Member of Parliament for London West, on behalf of the Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, today highlighted an investment of $2.55 million for improvements at VIA Rail’s London and Sarnia stations.
At VIA Rail’s London station, projects include upgrades to the station’s pedestrian tunnel and signage, as well as infrastructure improvements related to the station’s washroom facilities, heating system and tower cladding. In addition, projects at VIA Rail’s Sarnia station include roof repairs, upgraded washrooms, repairs to masonry and doors, and relocating wayside power panels. Investing in these infrastructure improvements creates valuable, well-paying jobs that help strengthen the middle class while ensuring safe and reliable travel services to Canadians.
These projects are being partially funded through a $34.4 million investment that was allocated to several improvement projects as part of the federal infrastructure initiative announced in Budget 2016.
Quotes
“These investments not only serve rail passengers in London and Sarnia, but will also contribute to the growth of the middle class and the economies of these local communities through job creation.”
Kate Young
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport and Member of Parliament for London West
“This investment allows VIA Rail's rail corridor infrastructure to remain safe and secure while at the same time improving the passenger experience by making it more accessible and efficient for Canadians.”
The Honourable Marc Garneau
Minister of Transport
“As Canada's national rail passenger service, VIA Rail Canada plays an important role in shaping Canada’s evolution toward a more sustainable future, the funds announced today support the necessary shift we need to make. They also reflect our ongoing commitment to improve services in the communities we serve. I would like to thank the Government of Canada for their continued support in helping VIA Rail to be a smarter way to move people.”
Yves Desjardins-Siciliano
President and CEO, VIA Rail Canada
Quick Fact
- The Government of Canada provided more than $395 million in annual funding in 2015-2016 to support VIA Rail's operating and capital needs, with another $444.9 million earmarked for 2016-2017, including this $34.4 million.
Contacts
Delphine Denis
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Transport
613-991-0700
Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055
media@tc.gc.ca
MP Kate Young’s constituency office
519-473-5955
Mariam Diaby
Senior Advisor, Media Relations
VIA Rail Canada
514 871-6010
mariam_diaby@viarail.ca
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