Halifax, Hydrogen, and the Future of Canadian Transit

This week, we’re looking north — and getting a clear-eyed read on where Canadian transit is headed. From the reality of funding and workforce pressure to the promise of what comes next (yes, including hydrogen), it’s a conversation about momentum, constraints, and the decisions shaping the next chapter of the industry.

This Week on The Podcast

What’s the state of transit in Canada right now—and what’s next? In this episode of Transit Unplugged, Paul Comfort sits down with Dave Reage, Chair of the Canadian Urban Transit Association (CUTA) and a longtime transit leader with deep experience in Halifax Transit. Dave shares a national view of Canada’s biggest transit priorities—from funding and financial stability to ridership shifts, workforce challenges, and the evolving role of technology and innovation.

ICYMI: Montreal Uncut!

Step beyond the main episode with this special companion feature and dive deeper into Montreal’s transit story with full-length conversations from industry leaders and innovators whose insights couldn’t fit in the original broadcast. Hear more from experts at STM, ARTM, Transdev Canada, Nova Bus, and Expretio Technologies as they share candid stories, challenges, and visions for the future of public transportation in Montreal and beyond.

ICYMI: Julie Brown

Paul is joined by Julie Brown, General Manager of Rogue Valley Transportation District (RVTD) in southern Oregon, President of the Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA), and Chair of the Oregon Transportation Commission. Julie pulls back the curtain on the real, day-to-day pressures facing agencies like hers.

The News Minute

Curious about the latest headlines in the transit industry? Check out our Transit Unplugged News Minute with Julie Gates. She covers the biggest stories in the industry every week. Click to view, and subscribe so you don’t miss a thing. This week:

• 😂 Bay Area Rapid Transit is teaming up with SF Sketchfest to bring live comedy performances onboard trains. Yes — stand-up on public transport 🎧👏
• 🚍 For #MLKDay , many systems ran holiday schedules, with Metro Los Angeles and Houston Metro offering free rides to parades and events.
• 🚇 Chicago Transit Authority is piloting activated carbon filters on railcars to reduce smoke and improve onboard air quality.
• 🚆 In Canada, the first new Northlander trainset has arrived — bringing passenger rail back between Timmins and Toronto later this year.

Preorder: Find Your X Factor 

by Paul Comfort

Paul’s new book is available for pre-order now! Find Your X Factor “reveals the path to discovering the unique intersection of natural strengths and core passions,” and “offers a powerful blueprint for thriving with meaning and momentum.” Lock in your copy now!