TORONTO -- With the Province continuing to support economic growth and job creation, Premier Doug Ford announced, Dec. 8, 2021, additional funding for roads, bridges, water and wastewater projects.
The Ontario government is providing an additional $1 billion over the next five years to help build and repair local roads, bridges, water and wastewater infrastructure in small, rural and northern communities.
This is part of the government’s plan to build Ontario by getting shovels into the ground on critical infrastructure projects that support economic recovery, growth and job creation.
“Our small, rural and northern communities will be at the forefront of our efforts to build Ontario for the future,” said Premier Doug Ford. “With this investment, we are saying ‘yes’ to helping these communities build and repair the vital infrastructure they need to keep their communities working for decades to come.”
The multi-year funding is being delivered through the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund. (OCIF)
Funding allocations will be based on a formula that recognizes the different needs and economic conditions of communities across Ontario.
The Premier’s Office added that starting in 2022, the formula will include an increased funding minimum of $100,000 for all communities per year, up from $50,000 over previous years.
“Communities are the heartbeat of this province and we know they are facing unique infrastructure needs and challenges, especially as we navigate through the pandemic,” said Kinga Surma, Minister of Infrastructure.
The Province’s investment in OCIF, is part of the 2021 Ontario Economic Outlook and Fiscal Review: Build Ontario.
The plan outlines how the government will build Ontario’s future with projects for highways, hospitals, long-term care, housing and high-speed internet.
This funding announcement will certainly support infrastructure projects such a few completed this year such as the reconstruction of Kenogami Road, and storm sewers in Terrace Bay, as well as ongoing projects like the Schreiber Water Treatment Plant.
