Funds for accessible buses and PRESTO expected to provide an easier ride for Mississauga transit users
Published February 12, 2021 at 4:05 pm
On Feb. 12, the province announced plans to invest nearly $3 million in two infrastructure projects that will allow seniors and people with disabilities to better access transit systems in the Region of Peel.
The province says the funding will go towards purchasing 69 new specialized buses capable of carrying up to six wheelchair passengers in Brampton, Mississauga and Caledon and implementing the PRESTO electronic fare collection system. The funding will be used to install up to 145 portable, tablet-based, electronic payment units.
“Peel’s goal is to create a place where everyone enjoys a sense of belonging and has access to the services and opportunities needed to thrive,” said Nando Iannicca, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation of the Regional Municipality of Peel, in a statement.
“This funding supports initiatives that directly improve the service experience for passengers with disabilities and advances the modernization of specialized transit in Peel. It’s an example of all levels of government working together to directly benefit the community by ensuring residents with disabilities can continue to travel without barriers.”
The federal government is also investing more than $3.5 million in these projects through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, and the Region of Peel is contributing more than $2.3 million.
According to the province, 24 per cent of Ontarians have a disability and this number will increase as the population ages.
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Editor’s more: an earlier version of this article said the federal government is contributing to the $3 million pledged by the province. The federal government is contributing separately. We regret the error.
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