Province topping-up transit funding for 5 cities including Brandon

By: Q Country/Star FM News
Posted: December 29, 2022 07:06

$13.4-million allocated in 2023 budget to cover operating losses

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The Manitoba government is setting aside over $34 million over two years to help alleviate transit operating shortfalls related to reduced ridership caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and to address affordable housing supply and density, this in a government media release sent out December 28th.

Municipal Relations Minister Eileen Clarke said "Our government is pleased to support municipal transit systems in Winnipeg, Brandon, Thompson, Selkirk and Flin Flon continue to take measures to recover from economic shortfalls experienced due to reduced ridership during the pandemic. Our funding immediately leverages and enhances $20.7 million in federal funding, which flowed to the province earlier this year. As part of the federal agreement, the Manitoba government is also committed to work with municipalities towards the shared priorities of improving housing supply and affordability for Manitobans that can, together with transit, improve the ability of Manitobans to live affordably."

Up to $13.4 million will be allocated in Budget 2023, the minister noted.

The Manitoba government currently provides a $172-million municipal operating basket grant to municipalities to allocate to priorities that include transit and significant support for housing supply across Manitoba and has committed to supporting significant transit infrastructure upgrades as part of the City of Winnipeg's long-term planning.

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