Canada, and particularly its province of Alberta, announced this Friday a joint funding of $11,6 million Canadian dollars aimed at infrastructure projects, in order to create jobs, help local economies and ensure energy efficiency.
Firstly, Jim Carr, Special Representative for the Prairies, presented the joint funding on behalf of Canada’s Infrastructure Minister, Catherine McKenna; as well as Prasad Panda, Alberta’s Minister for Infrastructure.
Secondly, the funding is aimed to “provide retrofits, repairs and upgrades to six provincial buildings”; as well as to improve energy efficiency and expand the lifespan of the facilities.
Thirdly, the funding will also enable economic recovery to the region, after the covid-19 pandemic; it will create jobs and business opportunities in Calgary, Edmonton and Wetaskiwin, according to the Minister’s statement.
Particularly, the government of Canada invested $9,2 million in these projects, while the government of Alberta provided the remaining $2,32 millions. Moreover, the investment will come through the COVID-19 Resilience Infrastructure Stream, of the Investing in Canada plan.
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This plan contemplates a federal investment of $180 billion over 12 years; for public transit projects, as well as green infrastructure, trade and also, transportation.
According to the statement: “Under the COVID-19 Resilience Stream, the federal cost share for public infrastructure projects is 80 per cent in the provinces; and 100 per cent in the territories and for projects intended for Indigenous communities.”
In addition, the Investing in Canada plan has already spent $4,9 billion in 350 projects in Alberta. Consequently, “the Government of Canada is taking decisive actions to create jobs and support our economy,” said Carr.
“This funding will enable us to complete crucial repairs and upgrades to public facilities, supporting about 65 good-paying construction-related jobs for Albertans; while also providing local communities with an economic boost in these challenging times,” concluded Prasad Panda.
