Province earmarks up to $1 billion in COVID-19 support for local governments and transit

VICTORIA—The Province is designating up to $1 billion of additional spending targeted at addressing COVID-19 impacts and restart plans for local governments and public transit services, conditional on matching federal contributions under a 50/50 cost-sharing criteria.

“British Columbians are depending on government to provide help during the pandemic and build a resilient, secure future for our province,” said Premier John Horgan.

“I’m pleased this new funding will secure B.C.’s share of the federal government’s $19-billion Safe Restart program and ensure people have access to the critical services they need in their communities.”—John Horgan, B.C. Premier

According to the Province transit services are critical for a successful restart of the B.C. economy, and say that this funding will aid in addressing some of the revenue shortfalls caused by the COVID-19 crisis, while ensuring that important local government and transit services remain available throughout the Restart Plan.