Posted by Sudbury Northern Life Reporter Bill Bradley 
Despite delays in getting detailed information on the federal infrastructure funding, Mayor John Rodriguez is upbeat about the city's prospects.
"The federal government wants to get the money out the door and get the work done. They recognize it is one way to help the unemployment situation," said Rodriguez after city council Wednesday.
Rodriguez admitted the city was still waiting for the application forms and the criteria from the federal government.
"No, we have not got the details. But we know the general headings. One is infrastructure meaning roads, water, pipes, culverts and bridges. We also know there is a category for recreation-enhancing arenas and playgrounds. We have a list of those."
Rodriguez said it was up to the city to decide which specific roads were to be repaired.
"Regarding the amount of money, we already indicated we would put up our $30 million. We are looking at getting $60 million from them. We gave them a wish list of all the roads we want to do. Again council decides which roads get done."
Rodriguez said he was told the money would roll out the first week of April.
"That is when they would make their announcements saying which cities get how much. After that the money starts to roll out to those cities."
More good news is coming from the province, according to Rodriguez.
"The province has already indicated they are willing to put up their share. The infrastructure program is shared equally by the three levels of government. If we put up $30 million, we should get $60 million. That adds up to $90 million over two years."
Rodriguez said the city was ready and willing to put up its one third share-$30 million. The money is coming out of the city's reserve fund.
"I am most hopeful our streets will be clogged up with road equipment. That may inconvenience motorists, but I hope they do not mind."
