The Government of Canada is committed to supporting green infrastructure projects in Ontario. The commitment was reiterated on July 10, 2019 by François-Philippe Champagne, minister of infrastructure and communities, Vance Badawey, member of parliament for Niagara Centre, and Chris Bittle, member of parliament for St. Catharines.
“Investment in green infrastructure is essential to building strong communities and providing our kids and grandkids with a healthy and sustainable future,” said Champagne. “Niagara Falls, the entire region, and indeed all corners of the province of Ontario have critical investments to make in safe drinking water, wastewater, and flood protection, all projects that can be funded under the Green Stream. It is time to work with every order of government to move forward on these projects for the benefit of Ontarians in every corner of the province.”
In March 2018, the Governments of Canada and Ontario entered into an agreement that will see the federal government invest over $2.2 billion in green infrastructure projects across the province over ten years.
According to the Government of Canada, investing in green infrastructure is essential to building healthy communities, protecting our natural resources, and fighting the effects of climate change. Whether to improve our water and sewer systems, protect our local waterways, or use innovative technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, green infrastructure projects are helping build sustainable communities across the country.
“The Government of Canada works with municipal partners across the country to support infrastructure projects,” said Badawey. “These investments help communities, including Port Colborne, Welland, Thorold, and St. Catharines, stay healthy and sustainable now and for years to come. By taking a leadership role and investing in these projects, the federal government is committed to reducing the burden on the local property taxpayer, and to develop long-term solutions for infrastructure issues our towns and cities face every day.”
