François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, and Vicki-May Hamm, President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) have announced almost $37 million for 26 community infrastructure projects across the country. The funding will be provided through the Municipalities for Climate Innovation Program and the Green Municipal Fund, delivered by FCM and funded by the Government of Canada.
“The Government of Canada is pleased to be partnering with the FCM to support green infrastructure projects that will build healthier, cleaner communities now and for future generations,” Champagne said. “Local projects like the ones we’re announcing today will create new opportunities to grow the economy […], while improving energy efficiency and reducing our carbon footprint.”
A wide variety of green infrastructure initiatives such as electric vehicle charging stations, public building energy retrofits, and multi-use path systems, are being supported through the announced funding.
“We are proud to support the great work being done in municipalities to make Canada a cleaner and healthier place for everyone,” said Amarjeet Sohi, minister of natural resources. “A clean energy future starts at the local level, and we are committed to working closely with communities of all sizes to cut pollution, take action on climate change and improve the quality of life for all Canadians.”
In Baie Verte, Newfoundland and Labrador, the town will have a new municipal office and multi-purpose space by retrofitting an old high school building using environmentally friendly technologies. The renovated facility will provide new space for community celebrations, indoor sports and recreation activities and trade shows.
Vaughan, Ontario, will use the funds to make road improvements that will reduce the frequency and severity of flooding, as severe weather events are likely to become more common as a result of climate change. Mitigating flood risks provides financial and environmental benefits, improves water quality and safeguards public health and safety.
