Government of Canada supports bus purchase for Teslin Tlingit Council
March 31, 2017
Rural and northern communities have unique infrastructure needs. Remote locations, coupled with challenges in accessing quality digital connectivity and sources of energy and supplies, mean targeted investments are required to build strong communities.
Member of Parliament for Yukon Larry Bagnell on behalf of the federal Minister of Infrastructure and Communities Amarjeet Sohi, Yukon Minister of Community Services John Streicker and Teslin Tlingit Council Nha Shade Heni (Chief) Richard Sidney announced funding today of $215,000 through the federal Gas Tax Fund to purchase a 28-seat passenger bus for the Teslin Tlingit Council.
This new bus will have an accessibility ramp, accommodate two wheelchairs and will replace the current aging bus. In June, Teslin Tlingit Council citizens, in particular elders and students, will enjoy an improved ride to events, appointments and various functions in Teslin and other communities.
The bus will help reduce the number of vehicles on the road and decrease air pollution. This will protect the sensitive northern environment, as many of the trips will be to Whitehorse, located 180 kilometres north of Teslin.
Quotes
“The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of investing in infrastructure that supports cohesive and vibrant communities. Along with our territorial partners, we are proud to support projects like this that will provide those living and working in Yukon with greater opportunities and a better quality of life.”
–Member of Parliament for Yukon Larry Bagnell on behalf of Minister of Infrastructure and Communities Amarjeet Sohi
“In Yukon, the Gas Tax Fund is helping First Nations and municipalities build and enhance infrastructure that addresses their local needs. Access to this predictable funding supports effective community planning and investment in projects that support community development in the territory.”
–Yukon Minister of Community Services John Streicker
“The Teslin Tlingit Council prides itself on the services it offers its citizens. It is essential that we have safe transportation for our elders and our youth. This means of transportation is not only an efficient use of our resources but also reduces our carbon footprint.”
–Teslin Tlingit Council Nha Shade Heni (Chief) Richard Sidney
Quick facts
- The Government of Canada will provide more than $180 billion in infrastructure funding over 12 years for public transit, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, transportation that supports trade, and Canada’s rural and northern communities.
- To support public transit networks and service extensions, Budget 2017 proposed $20.1 billion over 11 years for provinces and territories.
Learn more:
Government of Canada’s $180 billion+ infrastructure plan in Budget 2017
Federal infrastructure investments in Yukon
Gas Tax Fund
Contact:
Brook Simpson
Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Infrastructure and Communities
Government of Canada
613-219-0149
brook.simpson@canada.ca
Bonnie Venton Ross
Communications, Community Services
Government of Yukon
867-332-5513
bonnie.ventonross@gov.yk.ca
Jade McGinty
Communications Coordinator
Teslin Tlingit Council
867-390-2532 ext. 306
jade.mcginty@ttc-teslin.com
Infrastructure Canada
613-960-9251
Toll free: 1-877-250-7154
media@infc.gc.ca
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