Federal officials announced Tuesday they are investing more than $150,000 to build upon active transportation safety in Saint John.
Saint John-Rothesay MP Wayne Long announced the funding alongside Deputy Mayor John MacKenzie. Long said the investment contributes to an inclusive, connected community that allows residents to access areas across the city quickly and safely.
“The Government of Canada is proud to support projects that allow Canadians to shift away from using cars for their daily commutes, resulting in the reduction of greenhouse,” he said.
Officials say the City of Saint John will prepare a plan to identify locations where there is a need for crosswalks and make them more accessible, as well as put together a road safety strategy focused on educating residents and improving safety.
The city will also prioritize and construct missing sections of sidewalks and trails.
The federal government says the investment will support active transportation options, which refers to the movement of people or goods powered by human activity like walking and biking.
“We value smart growth, and as our City continues to expand, we need to make sure that we place active transportation infrastructure in the right places,” said MacKenzie.
Ottawa’s investment comes from the Active Transportation Fund, which aims to provide $400 million over five years to areas across the country to “make travel by active transportation easier, safer, more convenient and more enjoyable.”