The Government of Ontario has announced a commitment of $170 million towards the London Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system.
The BRT system will provide commuters with 23.7 kilometres of rapid transit along London’s busiest corridors, connecting neighbourhoods, businesses and post-secondary institutions in the city to the downtown core.
“Today’s announcement is great news for Londoners and our economy,” said Deb Matthews, MPP for London North Centre. “This investment in our transit system will make London a more competitive and attractive location for business. Having access to rapid transit will improve the quality of life for those that work and live in London.”
The total estimated cost for London’s BRT system is $498 million. The City of London has committed $130 million towards the capital costs. The City of London will be responsible for all the ongoing operating and maintenance costs of the project.
“It is a huge day for London. This is going to provide Londoners with better transit everywhere, this system is the cornerstone of The London Plan and will change the way we move and grow,” said Matt Brown, Mayor of London. “This $170-million represents the single largest investment our provincial partners have ever made in our community. Thank you to our partners at Queen’s Park for sharing council’s vision for our city.”
Construction is phased and estimated to begin on the east corridor in 2020 and on the north corridor in 2022, with the opening of these corridors in 2023 and 2026 respectively. Construction would then begin on the south corridor in 2023 and on the west corridor in 2025, and open by 2026 and 2028.
Under the Gas Tax Program, Ontario also provided the City of London with more than $119 million for the improvement and expansion of public transit since 2004.