Hon. Mitchell Murphy is pleased that the infrastructure projects have been announced and that work can begin immediately.
Canada/Prince Edward Island Infrastructure Works Program was established to upgrade the quality of physical infrastructure in local communities and to create short-term and long-term employment opportunities.
The program has been very well received by Island communities and, prior to these "top up" approvals, approximately $36 million was invested in our Island communities infrastructure. The majority of these dollars were invested in Island municipalities in upgrading municipal infrastructure such as water, sewer and street projects.
Mr. Murphy stated "the province recognizes the important efforts of the P.E.I. Federation of Municipalities and the Canadian Federation of Municipalities in encouraging the federal and provincial governments to implement the Infrastructure Program."
The projects announced today will again certainly support community growth and development.
"This funding is an investment in our communities and in our province," said Mitchell Murphy. "Essential infrastructure such as water and sewer systems, services such as fire fighting, and community facilities are key to supporting new development and enhancing community growth. By ensuring those things are in place, we strengthen our province's competitive position."
The majority of the Infrastructure dollars announced today, over 80 percent, have been approved to Island municipalities for upgrading essential municipal services such as sewer, water, streets, sidewalks and community buildings.
The approximately 67 approved projects are spread out across the province, and it is pleasing to note that a number of smaller projects have been approved to assist communities in improving their community centres. These approvals are consistent with the province's goal to support and enhance community economic development opportunities via the strengthening of local community infrastructure.