GVBOT responds to the creation of permanent public transit fund

Feb. 10, 2021

VANCOUVER, B.C. —Today, the federal government announced $14.9 billion for public transit projects over the next eight years, including $3 billion in permanent funding beginning in 2026-27. In response, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade President and CEO, Bridgitte Anderson, released the following statement:

"Looking toward a post-pandemic future, we know that Greater Vancouver will continue to need increased investments in transit if we are going to improve our competitiveness and our quality of life.

The stability provided by the announcement today will significantly help our region to plan for the future and know that we will have funding available to not only complete projects currently planned but also new projects across the region. We are hopeful that this could support the completion of the some projects, such as the Surrey-Langley SkyTrain. Continued investments in public transportation can also be an important lever to increase the availability and affordability of housing, a key challenge in the region.

A recent Board of Trade survey noted that 36% of respondents plan to increase use of their car or car ownership because of COVID-19. This is a worrying trend as prior to the pandemic our region was already among the most congested in North America. Congestion means lost economic activity and increased emissions. These investments will help us avoid an increase in congestion and to plan, invest and build for the future." 

-ENDS-

About the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
Since its inception in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Pacific Canada's leading business association, engaging members to impact public policy at all levels of government and to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one-third of B.C.'s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through four unique Signature Programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events programs in the country, providing a platform for national and international thought leaders to enlighten B.C.'s business leaders.

Media contact:

David van Hemmen
Director, Advocacy and Stakeholder Relations
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
604-640-5450 | media@boardoftrade.com