Transportation topics continue to be at the forefront of the economic policy challenges facing Atlantic Canada. In recent years the greatest concerns of the Atlantic provinces have related to funding and spending for roads and highways; federal policy respecting air services and airports; and proposed changes to the statement of National Transportation Policy in the Canada Transportation Act. Port financing and port/rail connectivity are also a significant concern.
Federal transportation policy has evolved in recent decades from a regime based on government control to one that emphasizesreliance on market and commercial forces. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of these developments in federal transportation policy and the transportation policy issues currently facing Atlantic Canada. It is intended to stimulate informed dialogue on Atlantic transportation issues and priorities.