TRANSPORTATION PLANNING AND
MODAL INTEGRATION INITIATIVES

The Canadian transportation system is more than the sum of its parts; it involves the connection and integration of various modes and jurisdictions. A sustainable and efficient transportation system plays an important role in ensuring Canada’s competitive success in global trade where integrated logistics chains with global reach are increasingly in competition with one another.

Intermodal transportation requires that the physical and electronic connections between different modes of transportation, such as rail and marine, be fully integrated in order to increase system efficiency and reduce total transit time and costs. New technologies, improvements to traditional infrastructure, and the harmonization of regulations are important in designing systems and managing the increasing demands on transportation infrastructure.

Building an integrated transportation system requires that transportation needs be considered from a system-wide and strategic perspective. Such a system requires planning and feasibility studies to assess transportation needs from a multi-modal perspective. By supporting the development of transportation-related expertise and research in the public, private and academic sectors, Transport Canada is fostering the innovation required to help our transportation system adapt to current and future challenges.

Funding for the Transportation Planning and Modal Integration initiatives is part of the Government of Canada’s $600-million Strategic Highway Infrastructure Program (SHIP). The SHIP program has two components: a $500-million highway construction component and a $100-million national system integration component. Of the $100 million, $5 million is available for academic research studies or applied transportation initiatives that advance transportation planning and modal integration in urban areas and along trade corridors. Approximately $1 million of these funds will be used to support the successful projects. To date, approximately $5 million in funding has been granted to a total of 45 projects across the country, including the 13 projects announced today.

Provinces, territories, municipalities, First Nations, registered not-for-profit organizations, private enterprises, public or private transportation authorities/agencies are eligible to apply. Also eligible are Canada-based academics, including undergraduate and/or graduate students, engaged in transportation research at a Canadian university or college, or affiliated academic research centres. Partnerships are encouraged.

For further information on the program, please visit our website at www.tc.gc.ca

June 2006