Investing in the Future of Canadian Communities Through Public Transit - Written submission for the pre-budget

Investing in the Future of Canadian Communities Through Public Transit Written submission for the pre-budget consultations in advance of Budget 2024 Canadian Urban Transit Association August 3, 2023 Investing in the Future of Canadian Communities through Public Transit Recommendation: Resolve the current infrastructure funding gap for public transit systems by shifting the start date of the Perman. [...] Additionally, the intake process for the remaining PPTF funds should be made available beginning in 2024 so that transit systems can begin the planning and application process for accessing those funds in 2026. [...] The Infrastructure Funding Gap The accelerated sunsetting of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) in March 2023 and the planned rollout of the $3 billion annual Permanent Public Transit Fund (PPTF) in 2026/2027 results in a significant infrastructure funding gap for public transit projects that must be filled. [...] A Smooth Launch for the PPTF To achieve the seamless rollout of the PPTF in 2026/2027, the government must support transit systems in the interim to ensure transit infrastructure remains in good condition and grows with the population. [...] Recommendations for Resolving the Infrastructure Gap To address the infrastructure funding gap and support transit agencies in preparing for the PPTF's launch in 2026/2027, CUTA recommends accelerating the launch of a component baseline funding stream of the program, equalling $500 million annually, beginning in the 2024 budget.