CAA SCO supports increased transportation investment

THORNHILL, ON, April 23, 2015 /CNW/ - As a leading advocate for transportation, infrastructure and motorists, CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO) is pleased that the 2015 provincial budget continues to focus attention and resources to combatting gridlock, improving transit options and enhancing road infrastructure – issues the auto club has been raising with the province for several years.

"CAA is pleased to see infrastructure defined as a key priority in the 2015 provincial budget. Through a series of new and ongoing initiatives, we are encouraged by the steps taken to address congestion and help enhance transit and road infrastructure across the province," said Elliott Silverstein, Manager Government Relations, CAA SCO.

We continue to advocate for dedicated funding from the provincial gas tax through our Worst Roads annual campaign. The government's commitment of 7.5 cents from the tax collected on every litre of gas sold for transit and infrastructure is a good start, and CAA wants to ensure the $31.5 million commitment remains the same, regardless of any variations in the amount of HST collected.

It is a positive development that a larger financial commitment than previously anticipated is being made to transportation projects, proving it is a key pillar in the government's plans. A key element of the government's budget is that solutions to the province's transportation challenges, including transit, roads and bridges are regionally based.

"Building upon commitments made in recent years, this budget maintains that dedicated funding for transportation infrastructure remains a priority, and the foundation has now been set for a regional focus on transportation in the coming years", added Silverstein.

As a leader and advocate for road safety and mobility, CAA South Central Ontario is a not-for-profit auto club which represents the interests of 2 million members. For over a century, CAA has collaborated with communities, police services and governments to help keep drivers and their families safe while travelling on our roads.

SOURCE CAA South Central Ontario

Media contact: Silvana Aceto, Media and PR Consultant, CAA SCO, [email protected], Office: [phone], Cell: [phone]; or Jeff LeMoine, Communications Consultant, CAA SCO [email protected], Office: [phone], Cell: [phone].