More than C$735,000 in joint funding to upgrade PEI vehicle fleet for Transportation West Inc.

Canadian officials announced more than CAD$735,000 (US$539,746) in joint funding for an upgraded fleet of vehicles for Transportation West Inc., a nonprofit community organization that provides affordable transportation services to those in need in the West Prince region of Prince Edward Island.

This funding will support the purchase of five fuel-efficient vehicles: one seven-passenger van, two ten-passenger vans, and two 14-passenger vans. The work also includes equipping the vehicles with wheelchair-accessible ramps. These upgrades align with Transportation West Inc.’s long-term goals to transition to an all-electric fleet to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide a sustainable transportation option for islanders in need.

“With this investment, we are ensuring that the transportation needs of our most vulnerable populations are heard and met, while laying the foundation for a cleaner future for islanders. This is another example of successful and ongoing collaboration between governments and local organizations in climate action,” said Bobby Morrissey, MP for Egmont, on behalf of Dominic LeBlanc, Secretary of State for Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities.

“Reliable transit strengthens our communities. It enables our residents to stay connected to their communities so they can access employment and social programs, keep appointments, visit friends and family, and lead independent and active lifestyles. This funding will ensure the availability and reliability of service for residents of West Prince,” said Ernie Hudson, Minister for Health and Wellness and Legislative Assembly Member for Alberton-Bloomfield.

“Transportation West Inc. is proud of our ability to provide safe, efficient and friendly transportation to those in need in communities throughout the western PEI. Newer, larger vehicles will help us fulfill our commitments to our community,” Sherry Tremblay, Manager, Transportation West Inc.

The Government of Canada is investing CAD$294,025 (US$215,927.55) in this project, the Government of Prince Edward Island is investing CAD$244,996 (US$179,921.39) and Transportation West Inc. is investing CAD$196,041 (US$143,969.57).

Funding from the Canadian government comes from the Public Transit Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.