Canada, Calgary invest in greener future for public transit 

eAwazLocal News

Calgary – Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities, Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources, George Chahal, Member of Parliament for Calgary Skyview, City of Calgary Mayor, Jyoti Gondek, and Jodie Parmar, Head of Project Development, Western Canada for the Canada Infrastructure Bank, announced a federal investment of more than $325 million to support the electrification of the city’s transit buses.

This investment builds on a $165 million investment from the Canada Infrastructure Bank and will allow the City of Calgary to purchase and deploy up to 259 new zero emission public transit battery electric buses. Over the following years, Calgary will also complete infrastructure upgrades to two existing transit garages, the Spring Gardens and Anderson Garages, including the installation of Charging cabinets and dispensers with spare capacity for future electric bus purchases. This federal investment will also support equipment procurement, training, design and engineering services as well as utility works.

Today’s investment supports The City’s plan to green their municipal vehicle fleet and will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by tackling a large contributor to emissions – transit buses. With up to 259 new zero emission buses, the City will be able to deliver accessible, clean, and safe transit services to Calgarians. By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country’s economy, building resilient communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.

“Shifting bus fleets towards zero emission buses is one of the most effective ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while investing in people’s quality of life. Alongside our partners in Calgary, we are investing in cleaner air and the creation of good jobs for Calgarians. We will continue to work with them and communities across Alberta to build a sustainable economy and a bright future for all Albertans.” – Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities 

“By investing in zero emission buses across Canada, we are lowering emissions, increasing affordability, creating jobs, and helping to build more resilient and sustainable communities. Today’s announcement for the electrification of Calgary’s public transit system shows how collaboration and partnership between federal and local governments can result in meaningful investments that have a real impact on Canadian’s daily lives.” – Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources