The governments of Canada and Manitoba recognize that strategic investments in public infrastructure are vital to building dynamic, healthy communities, fostering economic development and building the foundation for middle-class job creation.
The Honourable Jim Carr, Minister of Natural Resources and Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South Centre, on behalf of the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, and the Honourable Eileen Clarke, Minister of Indigenous and Municipal Relations, today announced funding for 42 infrastructure projects in 37 communities under the federal government’s Small Communities Fund. The Government of Canada and the Government of Manitoba are each contributing over $10 million toward the estimated $34.6 million in total project costs.
Among the wide-ranging projects receiving funding under this program are airport maintenance and shed replacement for the City of Brandon, important roadwork as part of the City of Selkirk’s Downtown Renewal Strategy, and the purchase of a generator to transform the Rural Municipality of East St. Paul’s arena into a fully equipped evacuation centre. This work, along with the many other projects receiving funding, will improve key municipal services for residents, help generate economic activity and boost regional development.
“The benefits from today’s announcement will not stop at local borders. High quality public infrastructure is an essential part of the fabric that makes up not only communities, but entire regions all across Manitoba. The AMM appreciates the opportunity to work together to prioritize the projects that will help our municipalities grow and thrive in today’s economy.”
Chris Goertzen, President, Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM)
The Government of Canada will invest more than $180 billion over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and Canada’s rural and northern communities.
The $1-billion Small Communities Fund supports priority public infrastructure projects in communities across the country with less than 100,000 residents. The Small Communities Fund allocation for Manitoba is $46.7 million.
