Municipalities in the Canadian province of Ontario are set to receive C$1.6 billion ($1.2 billion) in federal funding this year for infrastructure projects, according to an announcement from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
On Aug. 14, Trudeau visited Niagara, Ontario, to announce one-time Municipal Infrastructure Top-Up in Budget 2019, which doubles this year’s federal transfer to municipalities in support of local infrastructure projects.
“This year, we’re doubling the amount of money that municipalities get through the federal transfer in support of local infrastructure projects,” said Trudeau. “With this funding, communities across the province can focus on the infrastructure projects their residents need most. By funding local infrastructure, we’re creating good, middle class jobs, growing our economy, and investing in Canadians and their future.”
According to the prime minister, more than 600 communities and local roads boards are set to receive two C$408.3 million ($307 million) annual installments in federal funding in 2019–2020 for infrastructure projects in Ontario. The initiative also will include a one-time funding of $819.4 million ($616 million).
The funds will be funnelled into a variety of infrastructure projects, ranging from stormwater drainage systems to bridge improvement projects.
“Our government wants to find smarter and more efficient ways to make life better for all Ontarians,” said Steve Clark, Ontario Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “This funding helps support critical local infrastructure, such as drinking water, roads and parks. We’re working closely with municipalities because they know what their local community needs and, at the end of the day, there is only one taxpayer.”
