Federal government invests in rural public transit planning in southern New Brunswick

SAINT JOHN, NB, April 2, 2026 /CNW/ - Planning and research will help develop better rural public transit options in southern New Brunswick after an investment of $100,000 in two planning and design projects from the federal government.

The first project, a regional transit planning initiative, will involve assessing the needs of the Fundy region's diverse communities. The Fundy Regional Service Commission will receive $50,000 to complete a comprehensive public engagement strategy and incorporate these findings into the transit planning process.

For the second project, the Southeast Regional Service Commission will also receive $50,000 to undertake comprehensive public transportation research. This work will support transportation planning and decision-making by enhancing connectivity among communities in southeastern New Brunswick.

These investments will support new transit solutions, helping residents in rural and remote communities conduct their day-to-day activities, access services, go to work, school, medical appointments, and visit loved ones.

Quotes

"Investments like these will help build the transit services that will connect our rural communities and support the economy. Research and planning at the regional level is the first step toward providing reliable public transportation in rural communities, enabling residents to get to work, attend school and access essential services."

The Honourable Wayne Long, Secretary of State for Canada Revenue Agency and Financial Institutions, and Member of Parliament for Saint John--Kennebecasis

"This support from the federal government gives our region the opportunity to plan a transit system that truly meets the needs of our diverse communities. Through this project, we are taking a meaningful step towards a more connected and accessible region."

Robert Doucet, Chair of the Fundy Regional Service Commission Board

"This investment marks a significant step toward better connecting our communities across Southeast New Brunswick. By strengthening our regional transportation planning, we can improve access to services, support economic growth, and enhance quality of life for residents throughout our rapidly growing region."

Maxime Bourgeois, Mayor of Memramcook and Chair of the Southeast Regional Service Commission

Quick Facts

• The federal government is investing a total of $100,000 in these projects through the Rural Transit Solutions Fund (RTSF). The Southeast Regional Service Commission is contributing $75,000, and the Fundy Regional Service Commission will provide $10,000.
• The RTSF supports a range of public transit models including fixed-route transit, flex-route transit, demand-response transit, community shuttles and Mobility-as-a-Service. In addition to supporting rolling stocks, it also provides funding for fixed infrastructure that enhances access to public transit.
• A minimum of 10% of RTSF's funding is allocated to projects that benefit Indigenous populations and communities.
• The RTSF complements Canada's strengthened climate plan: A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy. Through the plan the federal government has committed to providing funding for public transit to support making clean and affordable transportation available in every community.
• One in five Canadians live in rural communities. Rural communities in Canada account for nearly 30% of the nation's gross domestic product.
• The Government of Canada is taking concrete actions to strengthen the economy by investing in Canadians and supporting Canadian businesses.
• Federal actions are creating good jobs, accelerating home building and helping communities grow across the country.
• The funding announced today builds on the federal government's work through the Atlantic Growth Strategy to create well-paying jobs and strengthen local economies.

Associated Links

Rural Transit Solutions Fund
https://housing-infrastructure.canada.ca/rural-trans-rural/index-eng.html

Strengthened Climate Plan
https://www.canada.ca/en/services/environment/weather/climatechange/climate-plan/climate-plan-overview.html

Housing and Infrastructure Project Map
https://housing-infrastructure.canada.ca/gmap-gcarte/index-eng.html

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Web: Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada

SOURCE Department of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

Contacts: For more information (media only), please contact: Renée LeBlanc Proctor, Senior Communications Advisor and Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure, [email protected]; Media Relations, Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada, 613-960-9251, Toll free: 1-877-250-7154, Email: [email protected]; Brenda MacCallum, Director of Community Development & Public Relations, Fundy Regional Service Commission, 506-650-5294, [email protected]; Marc André Chiasson, Communications Officer & Translator, Souhteast RSC, [phone], [email protected]