Nova Scotians will have more options for walking, biking and using other sustainable modes of transportation with the help of the Connect2 grant program.
Connect2 is accepting proposals for projects that create active transportation routes of up to two kilometres in communities across the province. Funding also helps promote shared transportation and other sustainable ways to get around.
“Many Nova Scotians rely on active transportation to help them stay connected to their jobs, to health-care services, to social events, and so on,” said Energy Minister Geoff MacLellan. “These projects accomplish that, while also helping us with our low-carbon goals and encouraging healthy living.”
Among the projects that use sustainable transportation to build stronger, healthier communities is the Grand Lake Road Multi-Use Path in Cape Breton Regional Municipality. The project connects the municipality’s two largest communities, Sydney and Glace Bay.
“Connect2 has been supportive and we appreciate that,” said Rick McCready, chair, Cape Breton Regional Municipality Staff Active Transportation Committee. “Like any project, ours has taken a lot of work and a long time to turn it into reality.”
Since Connect2 was launched, government has invested $1.8 million provincewide. This has helped create $8.6 million in added funding which has supported more than 70 projects and 60 kilometres of active transportation routes.
Successful projects may receive up to 50 per cent of eligible costs. The maximum grant for infrastructure and design projects is $100,000. The maximum amount is $30,000 for public education and engagement-type projects or studies to advance sustainable transportation best practices in Nova Scotia.
Proposals are due March 26 and all projects must be completed by March 2019.
For more information on the program, including how to apply, visit novascotia.ca/sustainabletransportation .
Source: Release