Winnipeg, Brandon, Selkirk receiving long-term federal funding for transit

Winnipeg, Brandon and Selkirk are splitting $120 million for transit infrastructure funding.

Winnipeg, Brandon, and Selkirk’s transit infrastructures will be getting a big boost thanks to federal funding scheduled for the next 10 years.

Federal minister Terry Duguid announced the three cities will receive a combined $12 million each year – totalling $120 million over 10 years – to help “upgrade, replace, and modernize their public transit infrastructure, and maintain it in a state of good repair.”

“Getting where you need to go should be quick, easy, and affordable. This funding will help modernize transit in Winnipeg, Brandon, and Selkirk—saving people time, lowering costs for riders, and making it easier to connect to jobs and services,” Duguid said in a news release.

The funding is coming from the Canada Public Transit Fund, with the first contribution set to arrive in 2026. It will last until 2036.

“Reliable, long-term transit funding is essential for Winnipeg’s growth. With our new transit network launching this summer, this investment comes at the right time, helping us build a more frequent, reliable, and efficient system that better connects people to jobs and services,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham.

The federal government said this announcement helps create “transit-oriented communities” and will lead to fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

“City Council and I express our sincere gratitude for the federal government’s investment of $3.89 million in transit over the next 10 years. Brandon Transit has experienced unprecedented growth in ridership in recent years. This funding helps to enhance our efforts to continue expanding Brandon Transit while fostering a vibrant community for generations to come,” Brandon Mayor Jeff Fawcett said in a news release.

“This stable and predictable funding from the federal government will play a critical role in allowing us to provide sustainable, affordable, and accessible transportation options for our citizens. Public transit fights climate change, supports economic growth, and promotes social inclusion within our communities. This long-term, and visionary investment will help us build a more sustainable, vibrant, and connected Selkirk,” Selkirk Mayor Larry Johannson said in a news release.

More details to come.