Ontario Doubles Rural Transit Funding in Middlesex County

0:00Ontario's Transportation Minister just dropped big news in Middlesex County, doubling funding for rural transit services from $5 million a year to $10 million annually over the next three years. That's a total investment of $30 million to connect rural spots with urban hubs like London. Earlier this week, the announcement happened at a county operation center near Strathroy, where officials confirmed Middlesex County already snagged. Nearly $3.5 million late last year under the program. Local leaders like county warden Susan Clark are straight up saying this cash is a lifeline, especially for rural bus routes that have struggled to. Stay afloat since launching years ago. Even though ridership jumped to 14,000 passengers last year, up 3,000 from the year before, the service is still running in the red, without full cost recovery. Minister Prame Sarkarie admits the slow start isn't surprising, as these routes need time to build momentum and gain steady riders. Clark added, they're talking public private

1:02partnerships with businesses near transit stops to boost viability. Looking ahead, the real key is keeping that ridership climbing, so these services can stand on their own in a couple years, turning provincial support. Into a sustainable win for everyone relying on those buses. Vancouver News today, powered by AI, bringing you what matters.