It’s no coincidence that the world’s most dynamic cities feature some of the best transit systems available. Modern and efficient public transit increases productivity, cuts commute times and reduces pollution—all while attracting top employers and skilled workers.

Our work has led to historic federal investments in public transit for communities of all sizes. In 2017, the federal government allocated $21.1 billion over 11 years to transit construction, expansion and rehabilitation. What’s more, it took our advice to deliver funding as predictable allocations to all cities and towns with transit systems, so they can plan ahead.

In the 19th century we built railway systems that linked regions across Canada, and in the 20th century we reached out to the world through our ports and highways. Tomorrow, our public transit will shape the next generation of livable, sustainable and world-class Canadian cities.

Building better public transit

Read FCM’s proposals to get more Canadians moving with a permanent transit fund and support for electric bus fleets.

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Resources
Case study: Kingston gets more youth riding public transit

A partnership between the municipality and school boards is increasing high school students' independence and their long-term use of sustainable transportation.

Featured news & resources

See featured resources, news, events and training related to Public transit.
News
The Urban Project in Gatineau: Tackling Urban Mobility in Canada

Mayors from some of Canada’s biggest cities gathered with thought-leaders from industry, academia, civil society, and the public sector to explore solutions to one of our most pressing quality-of-life and environmental challenges: urban mobility.

News
Local leaders to MPs: Let’s build better lives together

FCM’s recommendations for the federal government’s first 100 days represents the united vision of cities and communities of all sizes, in every region. It urges the federal government to move quickly to engage municipalities in 15 policy areas.

Resources
Building better lives together

This report presents concrete recommendations for the new government’s first 100 days in 15 priority areas—from getting infrastructure built to making housing more affordable to achieving universal Internet access.

News
FCM welcomes new federal government: “Let’s work together to build better lives”

Bill Karsten, president of FCM, issued the following statement welcoming the new federal government.

News
FCM responds to the NDP’s 2019 election platform costing

FCM's statement on the release of the New Democratic Party of Canada's election platform costing, which confirms a major commitment to affordable housing, along with commitments to strengthen public transit, adapt communities to new climate extremes, and strengthen rural broadband connectivity. 

News
Budget 2019 is an opportunity to improve the lives of Canadians

Big City Mayors’ Caucus Chair Don Iveson issued the following statement at the close of a series of meetings between Canadian mayors, the Prime Minister, and federal cabinet ministers.

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Quick facts
$3B
Economic growth generated per $1B invested in transit
$15B
annual cost of productivity lost to traffic congestion
4.7 M
tonnes GHG emissions reduced annually by transit use
Related focus areas
Explore the topics we’re working on related to public transit.

Infrastructure

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Local governments own approximately 60 percent of the public infrastructure that supports our economy and quality of life. Through advocacy and support, we help them build a stronger Canada.
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