For Immediate Release - June 29, 2021
The health and well-being of Canadians are top priorities for the governments of Canada and Ontario.
Communities across Canada are on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic, and need immediate assistance to ensure their municipal and community infrastructure is safe and reliable.
That is why governments have been taking decisive action to support families, businesses and communities, and continue to look ahead to see what more can be done in these unprecedented times.
Today, MP Lloyd Longfield, Member of Parliament for Guelph, the Province of Ontario and Cam Guthrie, Mayor of Guelph are announcing joint funding for 3 projects in Guelph to improve community and municipal infrastructure.
It has been my pleasure to work with the City of Guelph on making our green spaces more accessible, and investing in planting trees to improve our tree canopy. Natural solutions to the Climate Crisis, like active transportation and planting trees not only contribute to our joint net zero goals but also enhance the beauty and enjoyment of our community. -Lloyd Longfield, Member of Parliament for Guelph
The Government of Canada is investing $756,129 toward these projects through the COVID-19 Resilience Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.
The Government of Ontario is contributing $189,032 to these projects.
The projects in Guelph will enhance active transportation by improving road crossings as well as creating a new multi-use path along Hanlon Creek Boulevard.
Guelph is home to a growing network of active transportation infrastructure and when complete, the Active Transportation Network it will connect the city to more than 50 km of off-road trails and paths. This network will be accessible to all ages and abilities and will be in use year-round. COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of accessible, safe outdoor spaces including pedestrian and cycling paths. Investments like today’s are ensuring the demand provision of for sustainable transportation and recreational spaces are in sync with our goal of improving zero-emission transportation options.
Along with the active transportation projects, the City of Guelph is undertaking tree planting to increase the urban forest canopy and enhance the ecosystem through afforestation in recently developed areas. The tree planting project will help the City achieve its climate adaptation plan as it works to protect and sustain the environment.
Today, Minister Bardish Chagger on behalf of the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, and provincial partners, announced over $51 million to support 129 municipalities across Southwestern, Midwestern and Central as they respond to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Since the pandemic began, we have seen a huge increase in demand for safe outdoor spaces and active transportation options. People are biking and walking more than ever before. These investments in Guelph’s active transportation network will have lasting positive benefits for our city, long after COVID 19 is in the rear view mirror. We are grateful to the Governments of Canada and Ontario for investing in municipal infrastructure.” – Mayor Cam Guthrie, City of Guelph
The COVID-19 stream, implemented in response to the pandemic, allows Government of Canada to invest up to 80% in projects that support provinces and up to 100% in projects that support territories and Indigenous communities in their response to the pandemic.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on the wellbeing of all Canadians. As we continue to battle this crisis, ensuring that residents across Ontario have access to safe and inclusive municipal infrastructure is critical. By investing 80 cents on every dollar toward the important projects initiated by municipalities, the Government of Canada is responding to the immediate pressures and concerns of communities as a result of the pandemic. Canada’s infrastructure plan invests in thousands of projects, creates jobs across the country, and builds stronger, more resilient communities.”
-The Honourable Catherine McKenna, Federal Minister of Infrastructure and Communities
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