Significant New Building Canada Fund investment will promote national prosperity
January 20, 2015 – Montréal, Quebec – Infrastructure Canada
The Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Infrastructure, Communities and Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, was joined today by Sylvie Vachon, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Montréal Port Authority, to announce a major investment in key enhancements to be made at the Port of Montréal.
The three main components of the project involve expanding container capacity in the Viau sector, deepening vessel berths, and improving truck traffic flow in and around the port. This work is expected to significantly increase the Port's handling capacity, facilitate the accommodation of larger vessels, and greatly improve traffic flow for the more than 2,500 trucks that pass through the port daily.
The Port of Montréal will receive up to $43,666,667 through the National Infrastructure Component of the New Building Canada Fund for these key upgrades. This is the first funding announcement under the National Infrastructure Component and the first project to be funded under this program in Québec. Designed to support projects of national significance that have a strong impact on Canada's economic well-being, such as transportation and trade corridors, the National Infrastructure Component is a vital part of the federal government's New Building Canada Plan.
The project will help ensure the already very busy port facilities can support growth and meet increasing demand, particularly the additional business expected from the new Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement between Canada and the European Union. This historic trade agreement will open new markets to our exporters throughout the EU, expand two-way trade and generate significant benefits for all Canadians. The work will help the Port reinforce its status as a vital global shipping link while stimulating economic activity and development at the local, regional and national level.
Vincent Rabault
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Infrastructure, Communities and Intergovernmental Affairs and
Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec
613-943-1838
Sophie Roux
Director of Communications
Montréal Port Authority
rouxs@port-montreal.com
514-283-7050
Infrastructure Canada
613-960-9251
Toll-free 1-877-250-7154
Email: media@infc.gc.ca
Twitter: @INFC_eng
Website: Infrastructure Canada
