The City of Greater Sudbury received almost $2.9 million from the province’s Gas Tax program this year.
“Public transit has played a critical role throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and it will continue to well beyond,” said Transportation Minister Caroline Mulroney in a news release.
“Our government is committed to helping municipalities like Greater Sudbury sustain and improve their public transit networks now and for the future.”
The province is providing $375 million in Gas Tax program funding to 109 municipalities. In total, these municipalities provide public transit service in 144 communities across Ontario. These communities represent more than 92 per cent of Ontario’s total population.
Funding for the Gas Tax program is determined by the number of litres of gasoline sold in the province during the previous year. Municipalities supporting public transit services in their community receive two cents per litre of provincial gas tax revenue collected. This funding can be used to extend service hours, buy transit vehicles, add routes, improve accessibility or upgrade infrastructure.
Affordable and accessible public transit is key to the health and success of Greater Sudbury, said Mayor Brian Bigger. It connects people, improves access to work, school and services, and helps us act on the climate emergency by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
“Over the past few years, GOVA Transit has transformed routes, schedules and service throughout our city with tremendous success, and I want to thank our provincial partners for their ongoing investment and support," said Bigger.
Greater Sudbury’s Gas Tax funding has been relatively constant since 2008, receiving roughly $2 million to $2.9 million per year. In 2020, Greater Sudbury used Gas Tax funds for various operating and capital expenses, including garage and terminal improvements and initiatives to increase ridership and accessibility.
