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Press Releases 2003updated January 22, 2008 Immediate Release August 29, 2003 TRANSIT FUNDING COMMITMENTS FOR YORK REGION (Newmarket) - The government of Ontario has delivered on its commitment to improve and expand public transit in York Region by flowing funding of up to $50 million for a transit infrastructure project to be implemented throughout the region, Transportation Minister Frank Klees announced today. "Our government's vision for Smart Growth will create a better quality of life for residents in York Region," said Klees. "By beginning to flow this transit funding to the region, we are demonstrating our commitment to tackle gridlock by creating a balanced, integrated transportation system that includes public transit." Klees was joined by York Region Chair Bill Fisch at York Region headquarters to present a cheque for up to $50 million, symbolizing the flow of provincial funds to York Region for its Quick Start transit initiative. The Province is currently working with the region to develop a funding agreement. "Today's announcement will kick-start our efforts to build a transportation system that will meet the future demands for York Region," said Fisch. "I'm very pleased that the government has enabled us to get on with these projects that will bolster our economy, strengthen our communities and protect our environment." Quick Start is a three-year, early-initiative strategy to create rapid transit in four corridors: Yonge-Newmarket; Highway 7; Vaughan-Downsview; and Markham-Don Mills. Quick Start is expected to shift more than 7,000 commuter trips per day from automobile transportation to public transit. Klees also presented a cheque for up to $616,333, representing York Region's 2003 allocation under the Ontario Transit Renewal Program, which assists municipalities in renewing and refurbishing transit bus fleets. Six conventional buses and three specialized transit vehicles are on order and expected to arrive in October. "This is great news for our community," said Chair of Management Board, Minister of Culture and MPP for Markham David Tsubouchi. "Making transit more accessible was a key recommendation recently presented to the government by the central Ontario Smart Growth panel, and these projects respond to that recommendation." "Breaking down regional barriers in transportation benefits us all," said Associate Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing and MPP for Thornhill Tina Molinari. "Delivering investments that will result in expanded inter-regional transit, new transportation corridors and more efficient flow of people and goods is simply great news for the people of Thornhill and York Region." "Our government is working for residents of York Region and all Ontarians in making strategic investments in transportation to support a strong economy and strong communities," said MPP for York North Julia Munro. -30- Contacts: Bob Nichols Ministry of Transportation (416) 327-1158 Rosemarie Godina Minister's Office (416) 327-1815
www.mto.gov.on.ca
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October 4, 2006
February 17, 2005
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© 2008 Frank Klees, M.P.P. All Rights Reserved |
