Governments of Canada and Alberta Invest in Highway Funding; Create Jobs, Stimulate the Economy

February 09, 2010

Albertans will benefit from joint federal and provincial funding for paving HWY 88 near Loon River, announced Brian Jean, MP for Fort McMurray – Athabasca, and the MLA Pearl Calahasen. This project is just one example of the commitment of both governments to strengthening the Alberta economy by creating jobs and investing in critical infrastructure.

This project will improve transportation efficiency and create local jobs, at a time when the need for economic stimulus is greatest.

The government of Canada will invest up to $5 150 000 in the project, and the Province of Alberta will contribute the balance for a total joint contribution of $10 300 000.

“Along with our partners at the province of Alberta, we are proud to be investing in improvements to critical infrastructure that will improve road safety, and create jobs for Canadians," said MP Jean.  "This investment will help to stimulate the local economy, and will result in more efficient highway that will continue to pave the way for future economic growth and prosperity."

“The Governments of Canada and Alberta are working together to make investments that will position our province for a strong economic recovery,” said Pearl Calahasen, MLA for Lesser Slave Lake. “With this project, we are building infrastructure that will support northern industries, such as tourism, and improve the quality of life for people throughout the north.”

This project is one of 235 projects across the province that will break ground quickly thanks to a federal investment of more than $400 million. Together with provincial, municipal and other contributions, the total investment in local infrastructure improvements in Alberta is more than $1 billion. The governments of Canada and Alberta have taken steps to get shovels in the ground and to flow money faster for targeted infrastructure projects in Alberta communities in the 2009 and 2010 construction seasons.

For more information on Building Canada, please visit: www.buildingcanada.gc.ca.
To learn more about Canada’s Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.