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Red Deer Transit to benefit from joint funding announcement

Apr 6, 2018 | 11:22 AM

A major funding boost from the federal and provincial governments may soon be driving significant transit infrastructure improvements in the City of Red Deer.

This week, the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, along with the Honourable Sandra Jansen, Alberta Minister of Infrastructure, announced the signing of a bilateral agreement that will provide more than $3.3 billion in federal funding over the next decade through the Investing in Canada plan for infrastructure projects. Officials say the projects supported through the agreement will be cost-shared with the Alberta Government, municipalities and other partners.

It’s anticipated the City of Red Deer will receive up to $38,626,813 in federal funding for significant upgrades to its transit system under the public transit stream of funding.

Other funding streams include green infrastructure, recreational, cultural and community infrastructure, as well as rural and northern communities.

Overall, officials say it’s hoped the long-term investments being made through this bilateral agreement will create economic growth, middle class jobs, more efficient movement of people and goods, cleaner air and water and inclusive communities that have a low-carbon, green economy.

“Modern, efficient public transit infrastructure plays a key role in building strong communities where everyone has the opportunity to succeed,” said Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities in a press release. “I am very pleased that Red Deer will be able to improve its transit services thanks to this new funding agreement with Alberta. We are working closely with our provincial, municipal and Indigenous partners to deliver real support through transformative projects that will benefit residents across the province for years to come.”

“With this historic infrastructure agreement, we’re giving all communities the chance to partner with their provincial and federal governments to invest in projects that are most important to them,” added Sandra Jansen, Minister of Alberta Infrastructure. “I look forward to hearing some innovative ideas for these transit dollars that will support local jobs, stimulate the regional economy and benefit Alberta businesses and families for years to come.”