Feds commit $150M to national infrastructure program

FedNor Minister Greg Rickford announced the launch of the new Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program on Thursday.

The national program, announced through the federal government's Economic Action Plan 2015, commits $150 million to municipal infrastructure across the country, as the Government of Canada prepares to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017.

"As of today, FedNor is accepting applications for funding to rehabilitate, renovate and expand existing public infrastructure for community use," said a release announcing the fund.

"Municipalities, First Nations and aboriginal organizations and their related entities, as well as incorporated not-for-profit organizations, are invited to apply for funding for projects that will be supported on a cost-shared basis."

Detailed program and application information is available online at fednor.gc.ca/CIP.

The fund provides $150 million over two years to be delivered by regional development agencies across the country. The investments will support projects that "celebrate our shared heritage, create jobs and improve the quality of life of all Canadians," the release said.

In Northern Ontario, preference will be given to projects that require less than 50 per cent of eligible costs; are construction-ready, and can be materially completed by Dec. 31, 2017.

Applications are now being accepted on a continuous basis. All projects must be fully completed by March 31, 2018.

"Our government is helping communities create lasting legacies that will set the stage for the celebration of our Confederation's 150th anniversary," Rickford said in the release. "The Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program will support the improvement of key community infrastructure facilities that contribute to the quality of life across the North."