OTTAWA, Ont. — The federal government has announced it is contributing $962 million to improve public transit and clear highway congestion in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

The province of Ontario and several municipalities are also chipping in, bringing the total investment to nearly $4.5 billion. The funding is part of the FLOW program the federal governments attempt to improve the flow of goods and reduce traffic congestion in the GTA.

FLOW is about ensuring the free flow of people, traffic, and goods right across the GTA, said Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Its about cutting the commute, improving the economy, and cleaning the air.

“Today’s announcement is good news for Ontario’s economy and environment and a great example of what can happen when we work together to build up our greatest strength – our people,” added Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty. “Working together, Ontarians are building growth that’s green, and growth that lasts.”

In addition to expanding public transit options, the funds will also go towards three key highway projects including Hwy. 407, Hwy. 404 and Hwy. 7.

The recently-formed Southern Ontario Gateway Council (SOGC) lauded the funding announcement.

Increasing the capacity of the regions transit system is one of SOGCs top infrastructure priorities, said SOGC chair Richard Koroscil. They key to obtaining maximum efficiency from our overburdened road network is to make it feasible for more commuters to switch to public transit. The efficient movement of goods is the key to the economy of this region.