Major Funding for 35 Infrastructure Programs in Ontario

THUNDER BAY – Ontario and the federal government are investing over $88 million in 35 municipal and First Nation projects to build and repair critical infrastructure, help create jobs, and spur economic growth across the province through the Small Communities Fund.

Patricia A. Hadju, Federal Minister of Status of Women and Michael Gravelle, Ontario Minister of Northern Development and Mines, were in Greenstone today to make the announcement. Greenstone will benefit from federal and provincial support for the second phase of the Geraldton water line rehabilitation. This project will improve the health and safety of area residents by providing clean drinking water.

“Today’s funding announcement shows Ontario’s clear commitment to building and maintaining local infrastructure in communities across the province. In partnership with the federal government, we are helping communities build the kind of modern, critical public infrastructure that attracts investment and creates good-paying jobs and economic growth,” stated Bob Chiarelli, Minister of Infrastructure.

Projects across Ontario include improving waste management and water treatment facilities, and repairing bridges and highways.

“Today’s announcement demonstrates Canada’s commitment to working closely with Ontario to meet the unique needs of small communities across the province. By offering significant funding for a wide range of infrastructure projects, Canadian communities will benefit from investments that promote sustainable development while helping to grow the middle class. Municipalities know best what their communities need, and those insights are integral to building the Canada of the 21st century,” commented Minister Hajdu.

Ontario is making the largest investment in public infrastructure in the province’s history – about $160 billion over 12 years, which is supporting 110,000 jobs every year across the province, with projects such as hospitals, schools, roads, bridges and transit. Since 2015, the province has announced support for more than 475 projects that will keep people and goods moving, connect communities and improve quality of life. To learn more about infrastructure projects in your community, go to Ontario.ca/BuildON.

“These infrastructure investments help promote long-term, sustainable economic growth in Ontario’s northern communities. Thanks to joint funding from the governments of Canada and Ontario, these communities can improve local drinking water, waste management and other critical infrastructure,” added Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development and Mines.

Investing in infrastructure is part of the government’s economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality college and university education. The plan is making the largest investment in hospitals, schools, roads, bridges and transit in Ontario’s history and is investing in a low-carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement.