Canadian official: Nation's transportation industry must innovate, evolve

Lisa Raitt, Canada's minister of transport, said on Monday at the Canadian Transportation Research Forum's 50th annual conference that the nation's transportation industry needs innovation and adaptability.

The conference focused on the importance of preparation for future challenges that the Canadian government and transportation industry will face. Preparing for these challenges now will help the future growth of Canada, Raitt said, using her address to outline the initiatives and approaches that will best benefit Canada and its transportation systems, such as the Gateways and Border Crossings Fund, the Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative and the New Building Canada Plan.

Raitt highlighted how important it is that Canada invest in research and development to address these future challenges. She emphasized Transport Canada’s ecoTECHNOLOGY for Vehicles Program, as well as her support for ACTIVE-AURORA, Canada’s original connected vehicles test bed.

Raitt also highlighted the collaboration between Canada and the U.S. as the two nations cooperate to create the next generation of safer, stronger rail tank cars and develop the Gordie Howe International Bridge, named after the hockey legend.

"In a modern and mobile world, where we have to anticipate the unexpected, organizations such as the Canadian Transportation Research Forum are essential to generate discussion and share knowledge,” Raitt said.