In a recent budget work session held on April 24, 2025, the Prince George Transportation, Infrastructure, Energy, and Environment Committee discussed the proposed fiscal year 2026 budget for the Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPWT). The proposed budget amounts to approximately $45.1 million, reflecting a significant decrease of $22.3 million, or 33.1%, compared to the previous fiscal year. This reduction is largely attributed to a drastic cut in grant funding, which has decreased by 95%, amounting to a loss of $20.7 million.

The committee highlighted the need for supplemental funding of $6.8 million from the general fund to cover costs incurred from 15 snow and ice control events during the current fiscal year. The proposed general fund budget for FY 26 stands at about $13.3 million, down by $2.88 million, or 16%, primarily due to one-time capital expenditures in the previous budget for buses and equipment.

A notable aspect of the proposed budget is the allocation of $20.1 million for capital outlay, which includes funding for paratransit equipment replacements and electric buses, along with the necessary charging infrastructure. This investment aligns with broader environmental goals and reflects a commitment to enhancing public transportation services.

In terms of stormwater management, the department's budget for FY 26 is projected at $23.9 million, an increase of $1 million from FY 25, driven by rising compensation and operating costs. The capital outlay for this area has doubled compared to the previous year, facilitating the purchase of two SUVs for field staff inspectors.

The special revenue fund, aimed at improving transportation services, anticipates revenues of $6.5 million, unchanged from FY 25. This budget includes $4 million from existing fund balances to support the purchase of electric buses, with additional revenue expected from Lyft and Uber surcharges.

The proposed grant budget for DPWT is approximately $1.1 million, marking a substantial decrease of 95% from the previous year, primarily due to the removal of previously appropriated grants. The budget also includes $117,500 in matching funds for two grants.

The committee outlined a total of $111.99 million for various projects under the Capital Improvement Program (CIP), with a specific request of $44 million for stormwater management projects. Staffing is set to increase by three full-time employees and one limited-term employee, although the department currently faces a significant number of vacancies.

Overall, the discussions during the meeting underscored the challenges faced by the DPWT in balancing budget constraints with the need for essential infrastructure and environmental improvements. As the committee moves forward, the implications of these budgetary decisions will be closely monitored by the community, particularly in relation to public transportation and environmental sustainability initiatives.