Today, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship and Member of Parliament for Central Nova, Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton-Canso, the Honourable Michelle Thompson, Minister of Health and Wellness and Member of the Legislative Assembly for Antigonish, and Anita Stewart, Chairperson of the Antigonish Community Transit Society (ACTS), announced a combined investment of more than $1.22 million to support two rural public transit projects in Antigonish County.
This investment will support the purchase of two hybrid vans as well as an electric bus and supporting charging infrastructure to serve those in the town and county of Antigonish, including Paq'tnkek First Nation. It will also fund the construction of two bus shelters. The new vehicles and supporting infrastructure will enhance the existing fixed-route transit system and the bookable door-to-door transit service, which will provide residents-particularly seniors, students and individuals with disabilities-with transportation options that will enable them to access educational opportunities, go to work, attend medical appointments and take part in other activities. ACTS is also receiving funds to conduct a complete review of the fixed-bus route and further improve its service.
People living in rural and Indigenous communities often depend on private vehicles for transportation due to a lack of access to transit options. The investments in rural public transportation announced today will make accessible and affordable transportation available to more people in Antigonish County.
By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country's economy, increasing the resiliency of our communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.
