Toronto—The Ontario Public Transit Association thanked the Ford government for its continued support of public transit during a period of Covid-induced lower ridership. Public transit received $345 million in today’s fall economic statement.

More than a million Ontarians take public transit every day. Ridership is only about half pre-pandemic levels, however, and for every 10% drop in ridership transit systems lose $245 million. Without ongoing support from governments until ridership returns, service cuts are likely inevitable.

“Public transit systems and their riders thank the Premier Ford and Minister of Transportation Caroline Mulroney for their continued support,” said Kelly Paleczny, chair of OPTA. “Covid is having an extended impact on ridership levels and the government’s ongoing support allows us to get workers, students, seniors, and people living with disabilities where they need to go.”

Last year, the federal and provincial governments delivered $2 billion in support for public transit through the Safe Restart Agreement. The Ford government subsequently added $150 million.

 

For further information:

Jamey Heath

Director of public affairs and communications

Email  [email protected]