Backgrounder: Building stronger communities and improving quality of life for all Canadians
Backgrounder
Concrete results and benefits accomplished through the Investing in Canada infrastructure plan
The Government of Canada’s investments under the Investing in Canada plan are building strong communities and creating lasting economic, environmental and social benefits for Canadians. Since the Investing in Canada plan was launched in 2016, the federal government has invested in more than 48,000 projects through a wide range of programs and funding mechanisms. To date, over $42.3 billion in federal funding has been allocated to support these projects, of which the majority are either underway or already completed.
Investments are supporting the repair and upgrade of existing infrastructure in addition to building the new and transformative infrastructure that will support long-term growth, create jobs and prosperity, and build more inclusive communities across Canada.
The Plan focuses on areas of investment that our provincial, territorial, municipal, and Indigenous partners have identified as priorities: public transit; green infrastructure; social infrastructure; trade and transportation; and rural and northern infrastructure.
Below are some key information and examples of projects in each of the provinces and territories:
British Columbia
To date, federal investments through the Investing in Canada plan are supporting over 3,400 infrastructure projects in the province, of which 97% are either underway or already completed. In addition, communities all across the province are using over $813 million in funding delivered through the federal Gas Tax Fund to address local priorities.
The Millennium Line Broadway Extension in Vancouver, British Columbia (Federal contribution: $888,357,608): The Millennium Line Broadway extension project will reduce commute times and overcrowding in one of the most congested transit corridors in Metro Vancouver. Funded under the new Phase 2 Public Transit Infrastructure Stream, it will add 5.7 kilometres and six new stations, while creating thousands of construction jobs.
New School Gymnasium in Yunesit’in, British Columbia (Federal contribution: $4,166,014):The new gymnasium in the community of Yunesit’in Government in British Columbia creates a safe, healthy and inspiring space where children can play and thrive as well as a place where the community can gather, feast and learn. The gymnasium is an addition to the Yunesit’in Esgul (school), which opened its doors in 1993. The new facility features a kitchen, washrooms and a recreational area with bleachers that accommodate over 30 students, school staff and guests. In addition, community members use the gymnasium for meetings, cultural events and emergencies.
Alberta
To date, federal investments through the Investing in Canada plan are supporting over 2,500 infrastructure projects in the province, of which 98% are either underway or already completed. In addition, communities all across the province are using over $670 million in funding delivered through the federal Gas Tax Fund to address local priorities.
The Green Line Light Rail Transit Project in Calgary, Alberta (Federal contribution: $1.53 billion): The Green Line LRT Project will add 20 kilometres of new LRT track running from 16 Avenue N to 126 Avenue S.E., 14 new stations, and three park and ride facilities to the Calgary public transit system. Construction will also include eight bridges and four tunnels, including a four kilometre long Centre City tunnel, as well as a maintenance and storage facility. Also funded is the purchase of 70 low floor light rail vehicles, to move commuters to their destination more efficiently while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Wastewater Pipeline in Lacombe and Blackfalds, Alberta (Federal contribution: $29.8-million): A new, over 26-kilometre long pipeline built in the heart of central Alberta is part of a modern, reliable, regional wastewater system to address critical wastewater needs of Lacombe, the County of Lacombe and Blackfalds. It will support continued residential, commercial and industrial growth and help ensure economic sustainability for the region well into the future.
Saskatchewan
To date, federal investments through the Investing in Canada plan are supporting over 3,200 infrastructure projects in the province, of which 99% are either underway or already completed. In addition, communities all across the province are using over $181 million in funding delivered through the federal Gas Tax Fund to address local priorities.
The North Commuter Parkway and Traffic Bridge in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan (Federal contribution:$66 million): Two new bridges – the Chief Mistawasis Bridge and the Traffic Bridge – have reduced traffic congestion and shortened travel times for Saskatoon commuters. The improved connections among key parts of the city have also resulted in faster, smoother ways for local businesses to ship their products.
- Small Communities Fund Bundle in various Saskatchewan communities (Federal contribution: $26.9 million): Funding will go towards upgrading and expanding water and wastewater systems and enhancing local roads across Saskatchewan, to improve local public infrastructure in 46 small communities and contribute to their increased economic sustainability and a higher quality of life for residents for years to come.
Manitoba
To date, federal investments through the Investing in Canada plan are supporting over 2,500 infrastructure projects in the province, of which 99% are either underway or already completed. In addition, communities all across the province are using over $210 million in funding delivered through the federal Gas Tax Fund to address local priorities.
The West Alexander to East Exchange Corridor in Winnipeg, Manitoba (Federal contribution: $2.5 million): Winnipeg residents are enjoying an expanded network of walking and cycling trails, including dedicated bike lanes that connect the busy east-west corridor along McDermot and Bannatyne avenues to downtown and the nearby Exchange District. The new bike paths connect to bus routes, which give commuters more transportation options.
Lake Manitoba Disaster Mitigation Project in the Lake Manitoba/Lake St. Martin region of Manitoba (Federal contribution: $247.5 million): A project to construct new flood outlets for Lake Manitoba and Lake St. Martin will help mitigate flood risks for area communities, which experienced extensive damage from flooding in 2011 and 2014. The project also includes bridges, water control structures, a 24-kilovolt power distribution line, and related highway work.
Ontario
To date, federal investments through the Investing in Canada plan are supporting over 11,500 infrastructure projects in the province, of which 99% are either underway or already completed. In addition, communities all across the province are using over $2.3 billion in funding delivered through the federal Gas Tax Fund to address local priorities.
Toronto Transit System Bus Fleet Renewal in Toronto, Ontario (Federal contribution: $375 million): The transit commission will modernize and improve the reliability and availability of the bus fleet through two projects that are supporting the purchase of 983 new clean diesel and hybrid buses, as well as 60 battery-electric buses. The new buses that will add new routes or increase frequency on existing lines, as well as replace older, less fuel efficient buses. As the more environmentally-friendly buses come on line, commuters can expect to see reduced wait times, less crowding and increased seating.
- New Shelter for Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island, Ontario (Federal contribution: $2.3 million): To help survivors of domestic violence, Wiikwemkoong First Nation is building a gender-inclusive shelter for members of the community and surrounding areas. The shelter will provide a safe, supportive environment for individuals and entire family units as they begin to strengthen or rebuild their lives. The facility will have 13 bedrooms and the ability to support up to 17 individuals, drawing heavily on Indigenous culture by using cultural philosophies and ceremonies.
Quebec
To date, federal investments through the Investing in Canada plan are supporting over 5,400 infrastructure projects in the province, of which 98% are either underway or already completed. In addition, communities all across the province are using over $1.4 billion in funding delivered through the federal Gas Tax Fund to address local priorities.
- Garage Côte-Vertu in Montréal, Québec (Federal contribution: $87,580,035): The Côte-Vertu public transit garage in Montréal will improve operational flexibility for the metro bus network during rush hours. Construction is now already underway on the new underground garage that will house more metro trains as the Société de transport de Montréal expands its fleet to accommodate more routes and riders, including a possible extension of the blue line.
- The Saint-Nicéphore potable water upgrades in Drummondville, Québec (Federal contribution: $2,928,750): Residents of the Saint-Nicéphore sector of Drummondville are benefitting from a more reliable source of drinking water. The upgrades made to the community’s water pump and storage facilities will deliver nearly five times the amount of water at three times the pressure to Saint-Nicéphore’s 10,000 residents.
Nova Scotia
To date, federal investments through the Investing in Canada plan are supporting over 1,700 infrastructure projects in the province, of which 98% are either underway or already completed. In addition, communities all across the province are using over $171 million in funding delivered through the federal Gas Tax Fund to address local priorities. The Government of Canada is also funding over 680 projects in Indigenous communities across the Atlantic Provinces.
- Air Cargo Logistics Park at Stanfield International Airport in Halifax, Nova Scotia (Federal Contribution: $18 million): Construction includes new buildings and apron areas for cargo handling, and easy access to the regional highway system, Burnside Business Park in Halifax, and cargo facilities throughout the Atlantic region. The project will support increased exports from throughout Atlantic Canada, and international trade diversification with growing markets in China and the European Union. This project is expected to have significant economic and employment benefits by creating an estimated 643 jobs during construction, as well as more than 3,000 jobs in the first year of operation.
- The Sullivan’s Pond upgrades in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia (Federal contribution: $4.2-million): Dartmouth residents are living in a safer, more flood-resilient community following the upgrade of storm sewers, which can handle twice as much storm water as the previous ones. The upgrade also freed a river that had been buried underground for more than 45 years, restoring a natural passageway for fish to swim and a waterway for residents to enjoy.
New Brunswick
To date, federal investments through the Investing in Canada plan are supporting over 700 infrastructure projects in the province, of which 97% are either underway or already completed. In addition, communities all across the province are using over $139 million in funding delivered through the federal Gas Tax Fund to address local priorities. The Government of Canada is also funding over 680 projects in Indigenous communities across the Atlantic Provinces.
Dieppe Intergenerational Complex on Dieppe, New Brunswick (Federal contribution $9,575,632): A new sports and recreation facility will be constructed in the City of Dieppe that will include a walking track, community halls, two ice arenas and a greenhouse to promote a healthy, active lifestyle for residents, support tourism and serve as a training facility for local athletes.
The clean water and wastewater upgrades in northern New Brunswick (Federal contribution: $540,000): Residents in the communities of Bathurst, Beresford and Pointe-Verte now have access to clean, reliable water services following improvements to their clean water, sanitary sewer as well stormwater collection systems.
Prince Edward Island
To date, federal investments through the Investing in Canada plan are supporting over 150 infrastructure projects in the province, of which 93% are either underway or already completed. In addition, communities all across the province are using over $48 million in funding delivered through the federal Gas Tax Fund to address local priorities. The Government of Canada is also funding over 680 projects in Indigenous communities across the Atlantic Provinces.
Charlottetown Marine Terminal South Berth Expansion inn Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island (Federal contribution; $4 million): Work includes expanding the Charlottetown Marine Terminal South Berth by approximately 270 metres to be able to accommodate two 330-metre cruise ships simultaneously, while also leaving space for oil tankers and cargo ships. The larger berth will provide more room for the growing number of cruise ships visiting the region each year, improving the experience for tourists as well as those conducting business in the area.
- The Miltonvale Park well field in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island (Federal contribution: $8 million): Charlottetown’s 36,000 residents have access to more clean drinking water as a result of a new wellfield, water-management system and distribution lines. The 25-per-cent increase in supply will meet the city’s existing needs and accommodate any additional demand that arises from future growth due to residential and industrial development. On-site electricity production and underground wiring will ensure a resilient, reliable supply of water even during power outages.
Newfoundland and Labrador
To date, federal investments through the Investing in Canada plan are supporting over 1,100 infrastructure projects in the province, of which 98% are either underway or already completed. In addition, communities all across the province are using over $95 million in funding delivered through the federal Gas Tax Fund to address local priorities. The Government of Canada is also funding over 680 projects in Indigenous communities across the Atlantic Provinces.
- Trans Labrador Highway (Route 510) Widening and Hard Surfacing from 160 km east of Happy Valley-Goose Bay to Cartwright Junction, Newfoundland and Labrador (Federal contribution: $31,884,767): Over 126 kilometres of highway running from 160 kilometres east of Happy Valley-Goose Bay to the Cartwright junction of the Trans Labrador Highway will be widened and hard surfaced to increase the safety and efficiency of transportation network, and increase opportunities for economic development in the region.
- The Main Road and Gulch waterline upgrade in St. Brides, Newfoundland and Labrador (Federal contribution: $426,834): Twenty-five households as well as children attending the Fatima Academy School have clean, reliable drinking water again after more than two kilometres of waterline were replaced. The upgrade has eliminated the service interruptions and boil-water advisories that were frequent when the previous waterline had reached the end of its useful life.
Nunavut
To date, federal investments through the Investing in Canada plan are supporting over 170 infrastructure projects in the territory, of which 95% are either underway or already completed. In addition, communities all across the territory are using over $48 million in funding delivered through the federal Gas Tax Fund to address local priorities.
- Iqaluit Solid Waste Facilities in Iqaluit, Nunavut (Federal Contribution: $26,223,750): This project will replace the City’s existing landfill, which has reached the end of its useful life, by constructing a new landfill, an access road, a new recycling and eco-centre, and a composting area; the development of new methods of waste collection for residential, commercial and industrial waste; as well as decommissioning the existing site. The project will protect the health and safety of the community while reducing the environmental impact, including remediating soil and air pollutants.
- The Kenojuak Cultural Centre, Cape Dorset, Nunavut (Federal contribution: $6.7 million): The artists of this hamlet, one of Canada’s leading art capitals, now have access to modern studios, exhibition rooms and archives where the living heritage of the Inuit can be nurtured, preserved and shared with all Canadians.
Northwest Territories
To date, federal investments through the Investing in Canada plan are supporting over 300 infrastructure projects in the territory, of which 93% are either underway or already completed. In addition, communities all across the territory are using over $48 million in funding delivered through the federal Gas Tax Fund to address local priorities.
- Smart Cities Challenge Finalist Grant to Yellowknife, Northwest Territories (Federal contribution: $250,000): Yellowknife is among 19 other finalists in the first round of the pan-Canadian Smart Cities Challenge. As a finalist, the community was awarded a grant of $250,000 to help them prepare their final proposal. The proposed project will improve quality of life for our residents and visitors and increase ecological, financial to social sustainability by incorporating a variety of technological innovations into the lampposts around the city.
- Water and Sewer Truck Garage in Bechoko, Northwest Territories (Federal contribution: $1.1 million): Building a six-bay water and sewer truck garage in a community on the Yellowknife Highway was another achievement made possible by infrastructure investments. The addition of a new water and sewage truck garage next to an existing one will help support the growth and good health of Behchoko, the largest Dene community in the Northwest Territories. The heated garage will help ensure that the community members continue to receive essential community services well into the future.
Yukon
To date, federal investments through the Investing in Canada plan are supporting over 450 infrastructure projects in the territory, of which 95% are either underway or already completed. In addition, communities all across the territory are using over $48 million in funding delivered through the federal Gas Tax Fund to address local priorities.
- Carmacks Arena Replacement in Carmacks, Yukon (Federal contribution: $10.5 million): The new 2,500-square metre facility will provide a tremendous opportunity for residents to come together and participate in recreational activities with their friends and neighbours. It will include a full indoor arena, community spaces and a link to the existing recreation centre. The facility will accommodate year-round multi-functional use, including hockey and skating, curling, concerts, and community events.
- The Carcross/Tagish First Nation Learning Centre, Carcross, Yukon (Federal contribution: $3,975,000): The elders and youth of this Indigenous community now have access to a gathering place that allows them to learn and celebrate their culture. In building the centre, local youth and other workers benefitted from the jobs created and the skills they learned, which will contribute to the economic growth of the community for years to come.
To learn about infrastructure projects in your community: http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/gmap-gcarte/index-eng.html