Transit improvements thanks to federal-provincial-municipal partnership
WINNIPEG - April 5, 2012 - The Southwest Transitway officially opened today, providing Winnipeggers with fast and reliable transportation options between the downtown and the southwest part of the city.
Representatives were on hand to celebrate the opening of the project, which included the construction of a high-speed busway, new rapid transit stations and new pathways that will encourage bicycle and pedestrian traffic along the corridor, and to and from the stations.
"Winnipeg's first rapid transit corridor will offer people more choices for getting around and will play an important role in the city's future growth by creating development opportunities along the line," said Premier Greg Selinger. "Everyone benefits when more of us choose to leave the car at home and take the bus or bike, and this will make those choices more convenient, safe and reliable."
The stations are fully accessible, provide convenient access and offer a safe, comfortable waiting environment for passengers. They incorporate such amenities as heaters, benches, real-time BUSwatch electronic displays, information kiosks, directional signs, and efficient, effective lighting.
"Our government's top priority is jobs, growth and long term prosperity," said the Honourable Steven Fletcher, Minister of State (Transport). "This new rapid transitway will mean faster, more reliable commute times for families, help increase the use of public transit, promote alternative means of transportation, such as cycling, and contribute to a cleaner environment for all residents."
"I know that Winnipeggers will love the transitway in rush hour, but even in off-peak travel times, I expect they will enjoy the consistency of service, the higher speeds and the break from the stop and go of traffic," said Sam Katz, Mayor of Winnipeg.
The total cost of the project is $138 million. The Government of Canada is funding $17.5 million from the Public Transit Capital Trust. The Province of Manitoba is sharing the balance of the project costs with the City of Winnipeg.
Building on the $900-million Public Transit Canada Trust in 2006, the $500-million Public Transit Capital Trust announced in Budget 2008 supports capital investments in public transit infrastructure both as a means to reduce traffic congestion and to reduce carbon dioxide and other emissions. Funding under the 2008 Public Transit Capital Trust was made available to provinces and territories on a per-capita basis. The entire allocation of the Trust has been committed.
For further information on Infrastructure Canada's projects in Manitoba, visit infrastructure.gc.ca. To learn more about Canada's Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.
