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The new Brampton Bus Rapid Transit service is a great benefit to the region, supporting the local economy, providing greater transit options, reducing traffic congestion and supporting better air quality across the region, according to local representatives. “The Ontario government has demonstrated its commitment to getting people out of cars and on transit by making the largest investment in public transit in a decade,” said Minister Wynne. “Our new Open Ontario plan will continue to improve public transportation, generate jobs, stimulate the economy, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and congestion.”
The arrival of our first Züm bus, delivered by New Flyer, a Canadian bus manufacturer, is an exciting milestone for Brampton Transit, as the beginning of the count down to the service launch in September of this year.
The new Xcelsior model BRT vehicles chosen for Brampton Züm are the first of their kind, and Brampton Transit will be the first service provider in North America to use them. Manufactured by New Flyer at its plant in Winnipeg, these buses feature clean hybrid diesel-electric technology and boast a 10- to 15-per-cent fuel reduction compared to conventional diesel vehicles. The new buses, designed to be lightweight and quiet, will provide a smooth, comfortable ride and a reliable, convenient service for passengers.
The $285-million Brampton Züm project is being delivered in two phases, and the Government of Canada, the Province of Ontario and the City of Brampton are equal funding partners. The Government of Canada is contributing up to $95 million through the FLOW program. The Province of Ontario has already advanced its contribution of $95 million. The City of Brampton will fund the remaining $95 million in total project costs.
Phase 1 includes the construction of three Bus Rapid Transit lines with scheduled completion by September 2010, September 2011 and September 2012, and significant relocations/redesigns of two terminals with scheduled completion by September 2010 and September 2011. Work is ongoing, and future events will be held to mark important construction milestones.
This project also falls under FLOW, the Government of Canada’s transportation action plan for the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). The plan is designed to reduce congestion, cut commute times, help clear the air and help drive the economy in the GTA.