Vancouver transit advocates frustrated over funding reallocated in federal budget

Transit advocates in Vancouver are frustrated with the federal budget's decision to reallocate funds from the Canada Public Transit Fund to the newly established Build Communities Strong Fund. Movement's executive director, Denis Agar, highlighted the need for proper investment in public transit to combat rising living costs. He noted that many residents spend between $10,000 and $15,000 annually on car-related expenses, which public transit could significantly reduce. Agar pointed to major public transit projects, such as the SkyTrain Surrey Langley extension and the Burnaby Mountain gondola, as critical investments for the region. He criticized the federal government for overlooking transit needs in Western Canada, asserting that cities like Edmonton, Calgary, and Vancouver require more funding.

The federal government plans to allocate three billion dollars per year for public transit, but Agar argues this is insufficient for a country experiencing rapid growth. He indicated that this funding would only cover a limited distance of infrastructure development and does not meet Metro Vancouver's needs. Agar concluded that increased investment in transit would enhance residents' quality of life and access to affordable housing.