Canada, BC to make significant investments to improve lives of Canadians
Vancouver, British Columbia, April 2, 2018—The governments of Canada and British Columbia are working together to make long-term infrastructure investments that will create economic growth, sustain well-paying jobs, build inclusive communities and support a low-carbon, green economy—leading to a higher quality of life for all Canadians.
Today, the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, and the Honourable Claire Trevena, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure announced the signing of a bilateral agreement that will provide more than $4.1 billion in federal funding through the Investing in Canada plan over the next decade for infrastructure projects. These projects will be cost-shared with the Government of British Columbia, municipalities and other partners.
This new funding will see the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia make unprecedented investments in public transit, green infrastructure, recreational and cultural infrastructure, and rural and northern communities.
These investments will have benefits for people in communities across the province, including:
faster commutes and travel times for more people, and easier movement of goods for businesses;
cleaner air and water;
reduced greenhouse gas emissions;
smarter more efficient cities;
sustainable water management;
enhanced public parks, recreational facilities and other spaces that make communities great places to live;
better transportation and digital infrastructure for people living in remote communities;
increased energy security and reduced reliance on diesel in the North.
Across Canada, more than $33 billion in federal funding will be invested through new bilateral agreements with provinces and territories. Provinces and territories will develop three-year plans that will provide information on how they will implement their infrastructure projects.
Quotes
“Long-term investments in infrastructure are key to building a strong Canada—connecting people, creating good jobs for the middle class, and building our economy and communities for the future. We are pleased to have reached a new agreement with British Columbia to invest in infrastructure projects that will benefit all communities for years to come. Collaboration and partnership have been at the heart of the success of our Investing in Canada plan and we will continue to work with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous communities, stakeholders, and Canadians from coast to coast to coast.” – Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities
“Signing this new 10-year bilateral agreement with the Government of Canada means people in B.C. stand to benefit from record infrastructure investment – nearly $10 billion in partnership with all levels of government. From greener infrastructure and better public transit to enhanced community centres and parks, this historic funding gives communities in B.C. of all sizes a boost to deliver modern infrastructure through smart investments that benefit people, the environment, and the economy.” – Claire Trevena, Minister of Transportation & Infrastructure
“When we invest in infrastructure, we’re helping people live active lives, access clean drinking water, travel safely and efficiently and access more arts and culture,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “This historic agreement is paving the way for a better transportation system in the lower mainland and enhanced infrastructure for communities of all sizes across B.C.” – Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
