Canada and Alberta reach agreement under new Federal Infrastructure Funding Programs

The governments of Canada and Alberta are making investments to create jobs and grow the middle class now while building a foundation for a strong, sustainable economic future.

Investing in local infrastructure ensures Canadians have safe water and wastewater treatment systems that they can rely on. It also supports efficient, affordable and sustainable public transit systems to get to work, school and public services on time and back home safely at the end of a long day.

Today, Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, and Brian Mason, Alberta Minister of Infrastructure and Minister of Transportation, announced a bilateral agreement that will make more than $1.08 billion in funding available under two new federal programs – the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund and the Clean Water and Wastewater Fund.

“Infrastructure is the foundation of the Canada we want to build for tomorrow. The Government of Canada recognizes that we need a solid partnership with all orders of government to support infrastructure and create good, well-paying jobs that can help the middle class grow and prosper today. We are very pleased to have reached an agreement with Alberta, which will make over $1.08 billion in funding available so that Alberta communities can address their specific infrastructure priorities, while helping grow the middle class with good, well-paying jobs.”

Amarjeet Sohi, Federal Minister of Infrastructure and Communities

The federal government is providing up to 50 per cent of funding – more than $543 million – for projects supported through these programs and the provincial government and municipalities will provide the balance of funding.

“Working together, we are improving people’s access to clean water, improved wastewater treatment facilities and public transportation, all while supporting economic growth. These investments not only help Albertans get back to work, they also mean better services and better quality of life for everyone.”

Brian Mason, Alberta Minister of Infrastructure and Minister of Transportation

Also announced today was an initial list of approved projects in Alberta under the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund and the Clean Water and Wastewater Fund. The list includes important investments in 46 transit projects across Edmonton to support critical planning for the city’s next LRT expansion, as well as buses, LRT cars and significant infrastructure upgrades for the city’s existing transit system. It also includes 17 water and wastewater projects, such as a regional water supply system extension in Bonnyville that will give residents access to clean and reliable drinking water, supporting future growth and quality of life, and better protecting the local environment.

“I’d like to thank both the provincial and federal governments for their commitment to infrastructure investments in our city and I look forward to continuing our work together to support an effective public transportation system in Edmonton. It’s a critical component of infrastructure that supports the success of this city and its residents.”

Don Iveson, Mayor of Edmonton