Canada & B.C. Support Infrastructure, Small Communities

West Vancouver, British Columbia, March 13, 2009 – John Baird, Canada’s Transport and Infrastructure Minister, along with B.C. Community Development Minister, Kevin Krueger, today announced federal and provincial support for the development of up to 161 community infrastructure projects that will create jobs and help build stronger communities through a joint investment of close to $48 million.

Projects being supported under the Towns for Tomorrow and LocalMotion programs include cycling and pedestrian infrastructure and projects that improve water quality and address other important needs for smaller communities. This funding is part of an ongoing commitment to invest in British Columbia communities and support the economy.

“The Government of Canada’s number one priority is to stimulate our economy and create jobs for Canadians,” said Minister Baird. “The government of Canada’s investment in these projects will help to improve local infrastructure, inject additional capital into our communities and keep people working during these challenging economic times.”

“We are committed to helping communities across British Columbia weather the current economic storm and stabilize local economies,” said Minister Krueger. “These investments in B.C.’s communities send a clear message about both of our governments’ commitments to support local governments in meeting the day-to-day needs of residents while preparing for a stronger future.”

Today, Ministers Baird and Krueger announced $490,503 in funding for the construction of a 1.4 km. paved trail connection between Park Royal Shopping Mall, the Lions Gate Bridge and the District of North Vancouver as part of the LocalMotion program.

The Government of Canada’s contribution to the Towns for Tomorrow and LocalMotion programs will go towards specific projects and is conditional on the projects meeting all the federal requirements for infrastructure funding and the successful signing of a contribution agreement with the province.

Additional communities and projects to benefit from LocalMotion and Towns for Tomorrow funding will be announced in the coming weeks.

Towns for Tomorrow supports the infrastructure needs of communities under 15,000 and LocalMotion provides funding for projects such as trails, bike lanes and pathways. To learn more about both programs visit: www.townsfortomorrow.gov.bc.ca and
www.localmotion.gov.bc.ca.

These investments are part of the Government of Canada’s and Province of B.C.’s commitment to help stimulate the economy, maintain stability and keep British Columbians working during the economic downturn.

For more information, please contact:

Chris Day
Office of Canada’s Transport and Infrastructure Minister
613-990-0700

Infrastructure Canada
613-948-1148

Alison Paine
Ministry of Community Development
250 387-4089