INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS WILL CREATE JOBS IN SASKATCHEWAN

Communities across Saskatchewan will benefit from a federal-provincial partnership to support infrastructure projects across the province that will help stimulate the economy and create jobs. Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz, along with Highways and Infrastructure Minister and Cypress Hills MLA Wayne Elhard today announced funding for 61 shovel-ready infrastructure projects under the new Infrastructure Stimulus Fund, announced in Canada's Economic Action Plan.

"Our government is making smart investments that will improve Saskatchewan's infrastructure, inject additional capital into our economy, and keep people working during these tough economic times," said Ritz. "This infrastructure will improve our quality of life, as well as help to boost our regional economy now and for years to come."

"This federal, provincial and municipal partnership, and subsequent investment into provincial highways, municipal roads, bridges and other infrastructure, will work to ensure Saskatchewan residents continue to participate in our economic strength, stability and growth," Elhard said.

The new federal $4-billion Infrastructure Stimulus Fund provides funding to provincial, territorial and municipal construction-ready infrastructure rehabilitation projects that will be built during this year's and next year's construction seasons. A total of 61 infrastructure projects in Saskatchewan will receive a joint federal-provincial investment of $160.2 million ($89.2 million federal, $71 million provincial) under the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund. With municipal and other contributions, the overall investment could grow to more than $209 million. Projects being funded include several highway and local roads improvements, and wastewater initiatives in many communities across the province.

For provincial assets, the federal and provincial governments will each contribute up to fifty per cent of eligible costs. For municipal projects, the federal government will contribute up to one-third of eligible costs, with municipalities and the provincial government expected to contribute the remaining portion.

Under its Economic Action Plan, the Government of Canada is allocating $12 billion to infrastructure projects across the country. This is further complemented by an earlier commitment of $33 billion to infrastructure.

Canada and Saskatchewan are working together to create jobs and boost the economy, while making significant investments that help communities improve their infrastructure. Both governments have agreed to work together to ensure that these funds are delivered quickly and efficiently.

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For more information, contact:

Rosann Semchuk
Highways and Infrastructure
Regina
Phone: 306-787-6815
Cell: 306-526-9345

Chris Hilton
Office of Canada's Minister of State for Transport
Phone: 613-991-0700

Infrastructure Canada
Phone: 613-948-1148