Public transit in Durham Region is getting a major shot in the arm.

The federal, provincial and local governments announced a combined investment of more than $114.5 million in the city’s Bus Rapid Transit system infrastructure on August 12.

The money will go towards the construction of 7.5 km of dedicated median bus rapid transit lanes, 20 sheltered bus stops at 10 locations, and 7.5 km of bike lanes along Highway 2 in Pickering.

The project is part of the Durham-Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit initiative, which will provide more frequent and reliable transit services to the Durham Region and the City of Toronto. Once completed, it will provide residents with a safe and more accessible public transit system and enhanced active transportation options.

"The Durham-Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit project is a great opportunity to continue to build and connect our communities,” said John Henry, chair and chief executive officer of the Regional Municipality of Durham. “Travel demand continues to grow in Durham Region and, with our federal and provincial partners, we will continue to provide safe and reliable transit for residents and visitors."

This funding is part of more than $500 million that will be invested in the BRT. The project will create dedicated bus lanes along a 36-kilometre route from the Scarborough Town Centre to Simcoe Street in Oshawa, and eventually to the new GO Station near Ritson Road and Highway 401.

The Government of Canada is investing more than $45.8 million in this project through the Public Transit Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada plan. The Government of Ontario is providing over $38.1 million, and the Regional Municipality of Durham is contributing more than $30.5 million.

Through the Investing in Canada plan, the Government of Canada is investing more than $180 billion over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and Canada’s rural and northern communities. Of that total, $28.7 billion will support public transit projects.

Featured image: Rendering of a proposed BRT stop. (Metrolinx)