Communities across Atlantic Canada are set to benefit from a new wave of federal infrastructure investment, with $76 million now available to help build, repair, and modernize the facilities residents depend on every day.
The funding is being delivered through the Local Impact stream of the Build Communities Strong Fund, which officially opened to applications on June 8. Municipalities, Indigenous organizations, community groups and other eligible organizations across Atlantic Canada can now seek support for projects tailored to local priorities.
Announcing the program in Moncton, New Brunswick, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), said the initiative is designed to strengthen community infrastructure, support economic growth and help communities adapt to future challenges:
“Communities across Atlantic Canada need infrastructure that works, today and for the future. This $76 million will help get federal dollars directly into communities to build and upgrade the places people rely on every day, whether that is a local rink in Antigonish that needs repairs, a community centre in Gander that needs to be more accessible, a public park or pool in Bathurst, or a cultural space in Summerside that brings people together. These are practical investments that support families, create jobs, strengthen local economies, and help communities adapt to a changing climate.”
The fund aims to support infrastructure projects that improve local systems, strengthen communities and advance sustainable economic development in communities of every size.
Federal officials say collaboration with provincial governments, municipalities, Indigenous partners and the private sector will help maximize the impact of the investment and deliver greater value for Canadians.
The broader Build Communities Strong Fund is intended to accelerate infrastructure development across the country through Canada’s Regional Development Agencies.
“The Build Communities Strong Fund will support communities across the country by building reliable infrastructure at a speed and scale not seen in generations. Through Canada’s Regional Development Agencies, we will deliver high-impact community infrastructure projects that Canadians can rely on – helping build Canada strong from coast to coast to coast,” added the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada.
From community centres and recreation facilities to parks and cultural spaces, the new funding is intended to help Atlantic Canadian communities invest in the infrastructure that supports daily life while creating jobs and encouraging long-term economic growth.
