The Ontario government is paving the way for significant transit upgrades in Sarnia.
Infrastructure Minister and Lambton-Kent-Middlesex MPP Monte McNaughton announced in Peterborough Tuesday that 86 municipalities outside of the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area, are eligible for $1.62 billion under the Canada Infrastructure Program.
Sarnia is getting $27.7 million over 10 years, and the Village of Point Edward will receive $587,000.
Transit Superintendent Andrew Savor said there are a number of priorities set out in the city's transit master plan, including a new east end terminal.
"The second thing we're looking at is service improvements based on ridership," said Savor. "Lambton College's student numbers continue to increase, and we'd be looking at adding a bus or two to facilitate bus service as the numbers increase. The other thing that we would be looking at is some facility upgrades that are required to maintain our existing bus fleet."
Mayor Mike Bradley said transit is critical to any city.
"It must be remembered at all times that the transit system is a social service," said Bradley. "It is necessary. If you do not have transportation, it's an impediment to employment and to people living their lives that don't have automobiles. This helps the community function better, it certainly fits in with the growth we're getting with the international students."
As of April 2, eligible municipalities will be able to nominate public transit projects for consideration as part of a $30 billion, 10-year infrastructure program cost-shared between federal, provincial and municipal governments.
Ontario's share is $10.2 billion spread across four streams including public transit.
