The federal government is earmarking $1 billion for community infrastructure projects across Canada through a new funding stream aimed at supporting local priorities and regional economic growth.
Housing and Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson announced the investment last week at the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ annual conference in Edmonton.
The funding will be delivered through Canada’s regional development agencies as part of the newly created Local Impact Stream under the federal Build Communities Strong Fund.
Federal officials say the program will help communities build, expand, renovate and modernize infrastructure that residents use every day.
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Funding to support local priorities
The $1-billion commitment forms part of the federal government’s $51-billion Build Communities Strong Fund announced earlier this year.
Regional development agencies will administer the Local Impact Stream and support projects that reflect the needs of individual communities.
Eligible projects include community buildings, recreation facilities, innovation centres, cultural spaces and other infrastructure that contributes to economic development.
Funding may be used for new construction, renovations, expansions, retrofits, climate adaptation projects or replacement of existing infrastructure assets.
Most projects funded through the stream are expected to be valued at up to $1 million.
“The Build Communities Strong Fund will support communities across the country by building reliable infrastructure at a speed and scale not seen in generations,” Robertson said in a statement.
“Through Canada’s Regional Development Agencies, we will deliver high-impact community infrastructure projects that Canadians can rely on.”
Saskatchewan communities expected to benefit
In Saskatchewan, the funding will be administered through Prairies Economic Development Canada, commonly known as PrairiesCan.
Federal officials say details on provincial allocations and application processes will be released by individual regional development agencies in the coming weeks.
The government says regional agencies are well positioned to deliver funding because of their existing relationships with municipalities, businesses and community organizations.
The investment could support projects in communities throughout Saskatchewan, ranging from recreation facilities and community centres to economic development and innovation initiatives.
Economic benefits highlighted
The federal government says the broader Build Communities Strong Fund is designed to stimulate economic growth while improving community infrastructure.
Ottawa expects provinces to match portions of the funding, with additional investments coming from municipalities, territories and private-sector partners.
According to federal estimates, projects supported through the fund could help create an average of 42,000 jobs annually while contributing approximately $95 billion to Canada’s gross domestic product over the next decade.
Rebecca Bligh, president of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, said local infrastructure investments are essential for supporting growing communities.
“This new funding stream will help municipalities accelerate local community projects that support housing development and are key to building great places to live,” she said.
Part of larger infrastructure plan
The Local Impact Stream represents one component of the federal government’s broader infrastructure strategy.
The Build Communities Strong Fund includes $17.2 billion for provincial and territorial projects, $6 billion through direct federal delivery programs and $27.8 billion through the Community stream, formerly known as the Canada Community-Building Fund.
Federal officials say the program is intended to address infrastructure needs while supporting housing growth, economic development, climate adaptation and community resilience across the country.
More information on Saskatchewan-specific funding allocations is expected later this year.