Nova Scotia announced nearly $1M in additional funding for rural transit operators, like Chester Community Wheels. Photo: Facebook.
Nova Scotia’s community transit operators and their passengers can look forward to improved public transportation services as the provincial government announced substantial investments in 22 projects across the province. The government aims to enhance accessibility, affordability, and efficiency by providing funding to these community transit operators, thereby offsetting rising operational costs, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance expenses. Additionally, the investments will support low-income Nova Scotians through the Fare Assistance Program, which aims to reduce transportation costs for those in need.
Queens County: Queens Transit Society
The residents of Queens County will continue to enjoy reliable and accessible public transportation services thanks to the Houston government’s investment. Queens Transit Society has been awarded $41,500 to cover increasing fuel, maintenance, and insurance costs, ensuring the uninterrupted operation of their services. Furthermore, low-income riders in Queens County will benefit from the Fare Assistance Program, which aims to reduce transportation expenses for individuals who rely on community transit services.
Yarmouth County: HOPE Dial-a-Ride
HOPE Dial-a-Ride in Yarmouth County has received a funding injection of $12,876 from the Houston government. This financial support will help offset the mounting costs of fuel, maintenance, and insurance, enabling HOPE Dial-a-Ride to maintain efficient and reliable public transportation services in the area. In addition, low-income residents who depend on HOPE Dial-a-Ride will experience reduced fares through the Fare Assistance Program. This initiative aims to make transportation more affordable for individuals with limited financial resources, allowing them to access essential services, such as medical appointments and grocery shopping.
Chester-St. Margaret’s: Chester Community Wheels and BayRides
Residents of Chester and surrounding areas can continue to rely on safe and accessible public transportation services, thanks to the Houston government’s investment. Chester Community Wheels will receive $36,000, while BayRides will be granted $27,000 to offset rising operational costs, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance expenses. By providing financial support to these community transit operators, the government aims to ensure the continuity and quality of transportation services in the region. Moreover, the Fare Assistance Program will reduce transportation costs for low-income riders, helping to alleviate financial burdens.
These projects are part of the provincial government’s broader initiative to support community-based transportation services throughout Nova Scotia. The $931,000 one-time funding allocation aims to alleviate the financial strain caused by increasing operational expenses for the 22 community transit operators. Additionally, the government has committed $305,000 to the Fare Assistance Program, facilitating affordable transportation options for low-income Nova Scotians.
Kim Masland, the Minister of Public Works, emphasized the crucial role of community-based transportation in connecting people to vital services, educational opportunities, employment, and recreational activities. The government’s ongoing support for community transit operators reflects its commitment to ensuring that residents across Nova Scotia can access reliable and affordable transportation services.
Guysborough: Ensuring Safe and Accessible Transportation
Residents of Guysborough can expect continued access to safe, accessible, and efficient public transportation services thanks to an investment of $43,965. The Transit Association of Guysborough will utilize these funds to mitigate the impact of rising fuel, maintenance, and insurance costs. Additionally, low-income riders in the area will benefit from the Fare Assistance Program, reducing the financial burden of utilizing community transit services.
Victoria County: Enhancing Mobility for Residents
Victoria County Transit will receive a funding injection of $36,000 to address the mounting operational expenses. This investment will help ensure that Victoria County residents continue to enjoy safe, accessible, and reliable public transportation services. Furthermore, low-income individuals will also have access to reduced fares through the Fare Assistance Program, enabling them to fulfill their essential travel needs.
Pictou County: Chad Transit
With an investment of $160,000, CHAD Transit in Pictou County will be able to mitigate the escalating costs associated with fuel, maintenance, and insurance. This funding will contribute to the provision of safe and reliable public transportation services for the community. Additionally, low-income riders in Pictou County will benefit from reduced fares through the Fare Assistance Program, further promoting accessibility for those who need it most.
