Investing in Transit Operations Is Investing in Infrastructure
For Immediate Release November 5th 2025
Investing in Transit Operations Is Investing in Infrastructure
ATU Canada is welcoming the federal government’s recognition of public transit as part of Canada’s “core public infrastructure” in the 2025 budget, while underscoring that operational funding must be at the heart of that commitment.
Infrastructure is not only about construction or procurement. It is about keeping systems running safely, reliably, and affordably every day. Every operator, cleaner, mechanic, and dispatcher is part of the infrastructure that keeps Canada moving.
“Operational funding is infrastructure in motion. It is what turns capital projects into real service, connecting workers to jobs, families to care, and communities to opportunity. Investing in operations means investing in people, in climate action, and in Canada’s future.”
— John Di Nino, President, Amalgamated Transit Union Canada
Transit operations are the foundation of economic growth and climate action. Every operational dollar helps move people efficiently, reduces emissions, supports the transition to a green economy, and strengthens working-class communities across the country.
ATU Canada is calling on all levels of government to ensure operational funding is treated as an essential, ongoing investment in national infrastructure — one that supports both the movement of people and the good union jobs that sustain that service.
Key Points
Operational funding is core infrastructure. It transforms capital projects into real public service.
- Investing in operations is climate action. Reliable transit reduces emissions and congestion.
- Good jobs sustain safe systems. Stable funding protects unionized workforces and ensures safety, training, and reliability.
- Public systems deliver public value. Long-term operational investment keeps transit accountable and affordable for riders.
Contact: President John Di Nino (905) 906-7399
media@atucanada.ca | www.atucanada.ca