The Government of Canada is investing over $5.2 million in two projects in Ajax and York region, through the Covid-19 Resilience Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The Government of Ontario is providing over $1.3 million.
In Ajax, funding will support the expansion of the existing ActiveTOA trail network. The project involves adding three active transportation routes of three to six kilometres in length. It includes the design and implementation of the routes, the addition of wayfinding signage and stencil installations, and two bike repair stations. This project will provide Ajax residents access to an improved active transportation network that offers alternative commuting options and promotes healthy and active lifestyles.
“Access to reliable public infrastructure is vital for the health, safety and well-being of our communities. Today’s announcement of $6.5 million in federal funds will help improve and expand active transportation networks in Ajax, and improve community access to modern and reliable municipal buildings and services in York Region. Canada’s infrastructure plan invests in thousands of projects, creates jobs across the country and helps build cleaner, more inclusive communities,” said Mark Holland, Member of Parliament for Ajax, on behalf of the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities.
In York Region, funding will support upgrades to municipal buildings throughout York. The project includes the installation of an emergency generator and low-water fixtures, insulation for heating units and windows, as well as HVAC and lighting upgrades. Additional work includes the restoration of flooring and paint, rehabilitation of mechanical, electrical and water systems, replacement of septic system and fire pond, and interior structure work. Once complete, this project will improve community infrastructure in York Region, and ensure residents have better access to modern and reliable municipal buildings and services.
The Covid-19 Resilience Infrastructure Stream, implemented in response to the pandemic, allows the Government of Canada to invest up to 80 per cent of eligible costs for projects in provinces, and up to 100 per cent for projects in territories and Indigenous communities. The Province of Ontario will invest 20 per cent of the eligible costs for projects across the province.
Quick Facts
- Through the Investing in Canada plan, the federal government is investing more than $180 billion over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and Canada’s rural and northern communities.
- Across Ontario, the Government of Canada has invested more than $14.4 billion in over 3,900 infrastructure projects.
- Across Canada, since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic the Government of Canada has contributed $9.7 billion to 3,500 infrastructure projects.
- Ontario is investing $10.2 billion under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program to improve public transit; community, culture and recreation; green, and rural and northern community and other priority infrastructure
- To support Canadians and communities during the Covid-19 pandemic, a Covid-19 Resilience Infrastructure Stream has been added to the over $33-billion Investing in Canada Infrastructure
- Program to help fund pandemic-resilient infrastructure. Existing program streams have also been adapted to include more eligible project categories.
- The Covid-19 Resilience Infrastructure Stream funding stream guarantees a minimum of $100,000 to each of the province’s 444 municipalities. Additional funding has been allocated to municipalities based on a variety of factors, including the value of infrastructure and median household income in each municipality.