News Release
February 26.2008

Evergreen Line Backed in Conservative Budget

OTTAWA – Today Canada's Conservative Government tabled their third balanced budget in Parliament. The budget, entitled “Responsible Leadership,” includes funding for the Evergreen Rapid Transit Line to the Tri-Cities.
 
“This budget is great news for the Tri-Cities,” says local MP James Moore. “The Evergreen SkyTrain extension will happen, and the Federal Conservative Government will be there to support the project.”
 
In his budget speech, Finance Minister Jim Flaherty said: “Today we are providing $500 million to make further investments in public transit capital infrastructure. This funding will be dedicated to several specific projects, including The Evergreen Light Rapid Transit System.”

TransLink Chair Dale parker said the federal budget is “fantastic news” for Metro Vancouver's transit system. Parker says that having the federal gas tax as a permanent stream of revenue will allow TransLink to develop long term plans for transit improvements in the region, which in turn will help Metro Vancouver create long term plans for its growth and development.

In a news release, Parker says “We need to recognize the effort that James Moore MP and Premier Campbell have made to make the Evergreen Line a priority for federal funding. Today’s budget announcement is a signal that we are closer to a ‘go’ for this important piece of Metro Vancouver’s rapid transit network.”
 
“Our Government is working effectively with the Government of British Columbia on infrastructure projects.  The Evergreen Line SkyTrain extension will improve the quality of life of my constituents, and I'm pleased that we're getting the job done for the Tri-Cities,” says Moore.

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For more information, email moorej0@parl.gc.ca or call 613.992.9650