Backgrounder - Strengthening the Economy

November 6, 2007

Canada’s economy is strong, with growth rates that surpass those of all other G7 nations. Inadequate infrastructure can deter foreign investors, while modern infrastructure supports commerce, creates employment opportunities and attracts skilled knowledge workers. This is particularly true in Canada’s urban centres, where modern infrastructure can boost cities’ growth and competitiveness.

Without significant investments in the country’s critical physical assets, there is a risk that Canada will fall behind in the global economy and face challenges in maintaining a high quality of life for all Canadians.

Through Building Canada, the Government of Canada is taking action. This $33-billion, seven-year infrastructure plan will fund strategic investments in projects that will promote economic growth, increased trade and the efficient movement of goods and people.

Highways

A focus on improvements to the core National Highway System will increase the safety and efficiency of Canada’s transportation system, including the country’s bridges. Highways are key to trade and commerce, and the easy and safe travel by the public.

Short-line railways and short-sea shipping

Renewed and upgraded short-line railway infrastructure and the development of short-sea shipping infrastructure will provide better connections to mainline corridors, improve employment opportunities and market access for rural shippers, strengthen rural economies, reduce stress on regional road infrastructure caused by truck transportation and minimize negative environmental impacts.

Regional and Local Airports

Regional and local airports play a critical role in the economic livelihood, as well as the safety and security of the communities they serve. They link smaller communities to larger national airports and to domestic and international markets. Building Canada investments will be directed towards projects that can improve the efficiency and accessibility of regional and local airports, and support economic growth, particularly in smaller communities.

Connectivity and Broadband

Smaller and remote communities need broadband technology to provide their citizens with improved access to government and health services, jobs, business opportunities, education and training.  Some 2,000 communities, representing 1.5 million Canadians, still won’t have high-speed access by 2008. Building Canada promotes investments to improve the delivery of commercial and public services, including online health and education services.

Tourism and Convention Centres

Tourism and business travel create jobs and attract foreign investments and revenues. Convention facilities help strengthen the reputation of Canadian cities as world-class destinations, while contributing to Canada’s brand and profile in the international community. Building Canada encourages long-term funding for convention centre infrastructure that, along with investments in transportation and more efficient borders, will provide a foundation for the growth of the tourism sector.