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Hybridizing Public Transit in the Unique Town of Banff

Type of initiative FCM Green Municipal Fund - Capital Project
Sector Transportation
Project value$4,129,639
Project Type Capital Project
Sub Sector Public Transit
Grant amount$300,000
Program type GMF
Municipality Town of Banff, AB
Loan amount$300,000
Status Fully Disbursed
Population 8,305
Project timeline 2006 - 2009
Project number 9769

Description

The Town of Banff will acquire a new municipal transit fleet of four NOVA 40-foot diesel hybrid-electric buses to replace the current 1985 standard diesel engine fleet in an effort to meet both the town’s and national park’s environmental targets. The town, located in a world-famous national park and World Heritage Site, has high levels of tourism and automobile dependency resulting in higher-than-average levels of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for a town of its size. The new fleet will also offer bicycle and ski racks, as well as enhanced access for seniors and people with disabilities. These new buses, and the marketing and programming associated with them, are expected to increase ridership by at least 25 per cent and achieve a variety of social, economic and environmental benefits. The benefits include reduced GHG emissions; lower costs for fuel, maintenance and repair; helping to attract the young, transit-dependent workforce that Banff needs to meet seasonal tourist needs; improved access and functionality for residents and visitors; and the health and quality-of-life benefits that result from decreased automobile dependency.

Project results

Environmental outcomes

  • Reduced energy use
  • Reduced or avoided GHG emissions
  • Improved stormwater management
  • Access to public and alternative transportation
  • Promotion of eco-friendly transportation
  • Use of sustainable practices

Social outcomes

  • Protection/improvement of public human health
  • Increased public safety and security
  • Increased staff health and safety
  • Improved service delivery and/or level or service
  • Greater civic pride and ownership
  • Increased social inclusion
  • Improved public education or awareness
  • Improved public space
  • Increased civic engagement in community issues

Economic outcomes

  • Reduced maintenance costs
  • New or improved revenue streams
  • Lower taxes and fees
  • Increased tourism
  • Increased business attraction

Lessons learned

  • Stakeholder and community engagement
  • Communication & coordination
  • Resources
  • Technical – Project specific

Applicant

Town of Banff, AB