Federal government doubles assistance for fund that supports municipal infrastructure priorities

VICTORIA, March 21, 2019 /CNW/ - Investing in infrastructure creates good, well-paying middle-class jobs and sets the stage for long-term economic growth that benefits everyone. But there is more to infrastructure investments than jobs and growth. They make our communities better places to live and provide us with the roads, public transit, energy systems, water treatment facilities and recreational spaces we need now and into the future.

The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, today visited Victoria to highlight the $2.2 billion top-up to the federal Gas Tax Fund announced in Budget 2019. This will double the Government's commitment to municipalities this year and give much-needed support for local priorities.

Municipalities and First Nations communities will be able to use the funds to complete projects currently underway, create good, well-paying jobs, and make their cities and towns better places to live. The funds can be directed where they are needed most, including rehabilitating roads or building water infrastructure and new recreational facilities.

With Budget 2019, the Government of Canada is taking steps to help build communities that Canadians are proud to call home, while making everyday life more affordable for the middle class and people working hard to join it.

Quote

"We are making investments that are having a real impact on the lives of Canadians.  From the Canada Child Benefit, to the Middle Class Tax Cut, to investments in our roads, bridges and transit systems, we are focused on improving the lives of middle class Canadians in Victoria and across Canada."

– The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development

Quick Facts

• Budget 2019, Investing in the Middle Class, is the Government's plan to create more good, well-paying jobs; put home ownership within reach of more Canadians; help working people get the training they need to succeed; support seniors; and lay the foundation for national pharmacare.
• With many municipalities across Canada facing serious infrastructure deficits, Budget 2019 proposes a one-time transfer of $2.2 billion through the federal Gas Tax Fund to address short-term priorities in municipalities and First Nations communities.
• Projects under this fund can be used for the following:
• Productivity and economic growth – including highways and local roads, public transit, and regional and local airports
• Clean environment – including drinking water, wastewater and community energy systems
• Strong cities and communities – including sport and recreation, culture and tourism, and capacity building

Associated Link

• Budget 2019

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SOURCE Employment and Social Development Canada

For further information: For media enquiries, please contact: Valérie Glazer, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, P.C., M.P., Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, 819-654-5546; Media Relations Office, Employment and Social Development Canada, 819-994-5559, [e-mail]

Related Links

www.hrsdc-rhdsc.gc.ca