The province announced new $30-billion infrastructure funding program on Tuesday.
“When it comes to delivering core services that matter to people, our government is putting people first,” stated Monte McNaughton, Minister of Infrastructure, in a press release.
“Today’s historic infrastructure investment marks the start of billions of dollars in funding that will improve the wellbeing of the people of Ontario. And it is part of our plan to balance the budget in a responsible, sustainable way while creating and protecting good jobs.”
LIVE: Minister of Infrastructure Monte McNaughton makes an announcement.
https://t.co/PiiiOkQlp6— Monte McNaughton (@MonteMcNaughton) 12 March 2019
The first stream of the funding, the Rural and Northern stream, is open to cities and Indigenous communities with populations under 100,000.
Those communities, about 500 of them, will have eight weeks beginning March 18 to nominate road and bridge projects.
“Our Government for the People is listening and has heard the infrastructure needs of our municipalities,” McNaughton added.
“This first stream of funding is an invitation to all those communities to get started on the crucial process of project nomination.”
The funding falls under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, which will unlock up to $30 billion in combined federal, provincial, and local investments in communities across the province over the next 10 years.
“Our economy, communities, and families all depend on infrastructure. This program will bring major infrastructure investments that people rely on,” said McNaughton.
“And when we invest in smart infrastructure, we create jobs and grow the economy, shaping the future for hard-working families in Ontario. Our province is open for business and open for jobs.”
The Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program is a $30 billion, 10-year infrastructure program cost-shared between federal, provincial and municipal governments.
Ontario’s share per project will be up to 33 per cent, or $10.2 billion spread across four streams: 1. Rural and Northern 2. Public Transit 3. Green 4. Community, Culture and Recreation.
The first intake for the Rural and Northern stream will be open for eight weeks, and will focus on road, bridge, air or marine infrastructure in rural and northern communities with populations under 100,000 people.
The Grants Ontario website (click on Grant Opportunities) will be a “one-window” source for applicants, handling application intake, review, nomination, reporting and transfer payment management processes – all in one place.
