Canada Public Transit Fund has Launched

As of July 17, 2024, the Government of Canada has launched the Canada Public Transit Fund (CPTF). Alberta Municipalities has been sharing member perspectives on transit in various stakeholder engagement sessions leading up to the launch of this program. This initiative has been referred to previously as the Permanent Public Transit Program. 

Funding will flow to recipients in 2026. It is expected that the CPTF will provide $3 billion annually for public transit and active transportation systems across Canada. There are three funding components:

• Metro-Region Agreements will provide support for complex public transit systems and active transportation networks in urban areas where getting around frequently requires traveling between downtown cores, urban neighbourhoods, and suburban communities. This funding will encourage long-term integrated regional planning and will support a range of projects, including capital expansion, rehabilitation, renovation or restoration of capital infrastructure, and planning and feasibility studies. 
• Baseline Funding will provide predictable, long-term funding to communities with existing transit systems to support routine investments, with an expected focus on public transit and active transportation system expansions, improvements, and renovation or restoration of capital infrastructure. 
• Targeted Funding intakes will build on and leverage the successes of the Active Transportation Fund, the Zero Emission Transit Fund and the Rural Transit Solutions Fund, and will allow the Government of Canada to remain responsive to evolving priorities and community needs.

Expression of Interest intakes have launched for the Metro-Region Agreement and Baseline Funding components.  Targeted Funding intakes will be announced in the coming months. More information on program requirements and how to apply can be found on the CPTF website. 

Costs associated with operating expenses and regularly scheduled maintenance are ineligible for the CPTF. 

ABmunis will monitor the roll out of this program and continue to advocate for more comprehensive transportation supports.