Province Funds Sustainable Transportation Programs
Nova Scotians will see energy-efficiency improvements in transportation thanks to $285,000 in provincial investments for two sustainable transportation programs.
"Transportation accounts for 37 per cent of energy use in Nova Scotia, so broadening the transportation options available for Nova Scotians is a key focus for creating a greener and more sustainable Nova Scotia," said Bill Dooks, Minister responsible for Conserve Nova Scotia.
The Ecology Action Centre, which delivers the TRAX program, is receiving $250,000 to expand initiatives in transit, ridematching, and active transportation, such as biking, walking and running. About 65 per cent of the funding will be directed to an infrastructure fund to assist towns, municipalities, band councils, and community groups with community-based sustainable transportation projects.
"We are looking for projects that make using greener modes of transportation easier for citizens, such as buying a transit vehicle, creating bike lanes and starting a carpool-matching program," said Stephanie Sodero, TRAX co-ordinator with the Ecology Action Centre. "Providing Nova Scotians with improved transportation choices will not only reduce pollution, it will foster small-town revitalization and reduced health-care costs."
The deadline for fund applications is Monday, July 16. Program guidelines and application forms are available on the TRAX website at www.ecologyaction.ca/trax .
Conserve Nova Scotia is also providing $35,000 to Transport 2000 Atlantic for the Sustainable Rural Mobility Research and Outreach Project. Transport 2000 will conduct research to help identify opportunities for communities to establish, sustain and promote rural and regional public-transportation services. The research will be used to establish pilot projects in rural communities.
"Our investment in these programs means new energy-efficient transportation initiatives will be developed in rural and urban areas alike,”" said Mr. Dooks. "All Nova Scotians will benefit from these projects because they will achieve reductions in greenhouse-gas emissions, contribute to cleaner air and promote physical activity."
For information on Conserve Nova Scotia's other transportation programs, visit www.conservens.ca.