YORK REGION — The safety and well-being of Canadians are top priorities for the governments of Canada and Ontario. Investments in Ontario’s infrastructure during this unprecedented time provide an opportunity to create jobs, economic growth, and make our communities more sustainable and resilient.
Today, the Honourable Mark Holland, Member of Parliament for Ajax, on behalf of the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities; the Honourable Deb Schulte, Minister of Seniors; Francesco Sorbara, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Revenue and Member of Parliament for Vaughan–Woodbridge; Tony Van Bynen, Member of Parliament for Newmarket–Aurora; the Honourable Rod Phillips, Ontario’s Minister of Long-Term Care and Member of Provincial Parliament for Ajax, on behalf of the Honourable Kinga Surma, Ontario’s Minister of Infrastructure; the Honourable Christine Elliott, Ontario’s Deputy Premier, Minister of Health and Member of Provincial Parliament for Newmarket–Aurora; the Honourable Michael Tibollo, Ontario’s Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Member of Provincial Paliament for Vaughan–Woodbridge; the Honourable Stephen Lecce, Ontario’s Minister of Education and Member of Provincial Parliament for King–Vaughan; and Wayne Emmerson, York Region Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, announced funding for two community infrastructure projects in York Region and Ajax.
The Government of Canada is investing over $5.2 million in these projects through the COVID-19 Resilience Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The Government of Ontario is providing over $1.3 million.
In York Region, funding will support upgrades to municipal buildings throughout York. The project includes the installation of an emergency generator and low-water fixtures, insulation for heating units and windows, as well as HVAC and lighting upgrades. Additional work includes the restoration of flooring and paint, rehabilitation of mechanical, electrical and water systems, replacement of septic system and fire pond, and interior structure work. Once complete, this project will improve community infrastructure in York Region, and ensure residents have better access to modern and reliable municipal buildings and services.
In Ajax, funding will support the expansion of the existing ActiveTOA trail network. The project involves adding three active transportation routes of three to six kilometres in length. It includes the design and implementation of the routes, the addition of wayfinding signage and stencil installations, and two bike repair stations. This project will provide Ajax residents access to an improved active transportation network that offers alternative commuting options and promotes healthy and active lifestyles.
The COVID-19 Resilience Infrastructure Stream, implemented in response to the pandemic, allows the Government of Canada to invest up to 80 per cent of eligible costs for projects in provinces, and up to 100 per cent for projects in territories and Indigenous communities. The Province of Ontario will invest 20 per cent of the eligible costs for projects across the province.