The City of Brampton is pleased to announce a significant federal investment of more than $17.4 million to enhance public transit infrastructure in Brampton and the Peel Region. This investment will enable Brampton Transit to purchase 15 new buses, replacing those that have reached the end of their operational lifespan, and to implement modern fare payment systems and automatic vehicle location technology.
Brampton boasts the fastest-growing transit system in Canada, with ridership growth significantly outpacing population growth. In the decade preceding the pandemic, Brampton’s ridership increased by 160%, a remarkable contrast to the average increase of 2.3% in Ontario and 6.9% nationally. Brampton Transit has not only fully recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic but has also exceeded pre-pandemic ridership levels. As of April 2024, Brampton’s year-to-date ridership is approximately 40% higher than pre-COVID-19 levels, underscoring the effectiveness and value of its services.
The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, emphasized the critical nature of this investment: “Investing in public transit is essential to ensuring Canada’s economy reaches its full potential. Better transit makes it quicker and more affordable for Canadians to get to where they need to go, all while reducing emissions. Today’s investment to help two growing transit agencies buy new buses will make it a more efficient, reliable, and comfortable experience to get around Peel Region on public transit.”
Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, highlighted the broader impacts of the investment: “Public transit is not just about getting from point A to point B. It’s about building vibrant, connected communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. It’s about creating a more sustainable, resilient, and connected future for generations to come. That is why our government continues to make historic investments in public transit here in Brampton that build on the almost $30 billion that we have already invested to support public transit across Canada.”
This strategic investment reflects the collaborative efforts of federal, provincial, and municipal governments working together to foster a more connected, sustainable, and economically vibrant future for the citizens of Brampton and the Peel Region. Shafqat Ali, Member of Parliament for Brampton Centre, echoed this sentiment: “This investment is a testament to our commitment to creating a sustainable and accessible future for all. Enhanced public transit will not only reduce our carbon footprint but also improve the quality of life for our residents. I am proud to see this collaboration come to fruition and look forward to the positive changes it will bring to our community.”
The Honourable Prabmeet Sarkaria, Ontario’s Minister of Transportation, added: “Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government is investing nearly $100 billion over the next decade in public transit and generational projects like the Hazel McCallion Line and Highway 413 so people can get where they need to go when they need to get there. We will continue to work with our federal and municipal partners to make sure the people of Brampton and Peel Region have the public transit they need for generations to come.”
As part of the $17.4 million investment, the federal government is contributing $6.9 million through the Public Transit Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, which supports the building, expansion, and upgrading of urban and rural transit networks. The Government of Ontario is investing $5.8 million, while the City of Brampton and Peel Region are contributing a combined $4.6 million. This funding will also enable Peel Region to purchase 23 specialized transit accessible buses and two electric TransHelp buses, alongside upgrading its bus garages to accommodate battery electric buses.
Mayor Patrick Brown of Brampton expressed gratitude for the investment: “We are thankful to the federal government for making much-needed further investments in Brampton Transit. The support will help public transit in Brampton significantly. By replacing buses that have reached their end of life and embracing innovation by implementing new, modern fare systems and vehicle location technology, we are ensuring a seamless journey for all. As Canada’s fastest-growing transit network, our ridership surge defies norms, demonstrating the indispensable role of Brampton Transit. Investments like this allow us to continue to meet the needs of our riders and with an unwavering focus on sustainability and connectivity, we’re shaping a future where transit is not just efficient, but environmentally responsible. Brampton Transit is not just a service; it’s a pathway to a greener, more connected tomorrow.”