Fifty-six projects in communities across Prince Edward Island have been announced under the first round of the Canada-Prince Edward Island Infrastructure Program.
Details of the projects, which have a total value of approximately $37 million, were announced today by the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Solicitor General of Canada; the Honourable Pat Binns, Premier of Prince Edward Island; and Stan Campbell, President, Federation of Prince Edward Island Municipalities.
"These infrastructure projects have been identified by the communities as their priority. I am pleased that the Government of Canada is able to support these initiatives which will positively impact both rural and urban areas throughout the entire province," said Minister MacAulay, on behalf of the Honourable Robert Thibault, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).
Green municipal infrastructure to ensure effective wastewater management systems and safe drinking water is the first priority under the program. More than 64 percent of the federal and provincial funding announced under Round One will be directed to green projects; this exceeds the 60 percent target set out in the program.
"Today's announcement reflects a continued effort by the three levels of government in PEI to work in partnership toward enhancements in environmental infrastructure and recreational and affordable housing facilities," said Premier Binns. "These initiatives will impact significantly on Island communities and ensure good planning and economic strength for the future."
Other priorities of the Infrastructure Program include cultural and recreational facilities, infrastructure supporting local transportation, and affordable housing. Rural areas of the province will receive half of the federal and provincial funding under this round.
"The innovative approach of all three levels of government working together to improve the quality of life of Islanders has made the Federation of PEI Municipalities the envy of other provincial and territorial municipal associations," said Stan Campbell, President, Federation of Prince Edward Island Municipalities.
During the five-year program, the Government of Canada and the Government of Prince Edward Island will each contribute $12.8 million to the program. The total minimum funding from local governments must equal this amount. Under the first round, the federal and provincial governments have committed two-thirds of available funds. Other projects will be considered in the future.
The Canada-Prince Edward Island Infrastructure Program is administered by ACOA and the PEI Department of Community and Cultural Affairs. The Federation of PEI Municipalities is represented on the program's management committee.
Environmental assessments have been completed on 53 of the 56 projects. Final approval on the three remaining projects will not be granted until the environment assessments are complete.