Windsor, Tecumseh receive $4.6 million in provincial funds for transit

Transit services in Windsor and Tecumseh will get a boost, thanks to more than $4.6 million in gas tax funding handed out by the province on Thursday.

Windsor-Tecumseh MPP Andrew Dowie says Windsor received $4,462,356, while Tecumseh got more than $176,000 in the2023-24 program.

"It makes sure that the people of the community have a way to get around, even if they can't afford a car," Dowie said. "That allows them to get to work, allows them to go see their friends and family and to access services that they need to really, really have a great quality of life."

The money comes from the provincial gas tax fund. The allocations are determined based on transit ridership and population, Dowie said, and this year Windsor received about $170,000 more than the year before.

Municipalities can use the money for more service hours, better accessibility or increased routes, or to purchase new vehicles.

"Acknowledging the remarkable growth of the City of Windsor, marked as one of Canada's fastest-growing communities, underscores the necessity for a reliable and interconnected transit network," said Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens in a statement. "This infrastructure is vital for enabling seamless movement and ensuring swift and efficient transportation throughout Windsor."

Dowie said reliability is his top issue related to transit.

"I know that really keeping the vehicles in a good state of repair and a reliable schedule is vital" Dowie said, noting the Transit Windsor master plan the city is working on implementing. "I know these funds will be used to good effect there and the Town of Tecumseh.

"They're doing a great job with their service and I'm happy to see that continue."

Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara said money like the gas tax help the town continue to offer affordable transit.

"Thank you to the Ontario government for investing in transit and connecting people to the things that matter most to them," he said.

The provincial Southwestern Ontario Transportation Master Plan survey is now open, Dowie noted, and collecting feedback on all kinds of passenger services, from bus lines to airports. People can find the survey online.

Provincial transportation master plan survey now open

The original draft plan was developed in 2022 and was intended to carry the province through 2026. But Dowie noted major changes in transportation, like the loss of Greyhound service and addition of new bus services and expansion of GO Transit.

"It's important that these plans be authoritative, that they include all the necessary details that can help make our lives better," he said.

"I would encourage everyone, while we have the opportunity to contribute to the Southwestern Ontario Transportation Plan, and that way we can make sure that our communities in Essex County and Windsor are best served through this document and it's important to get it right."