| Work Detail |
Newfoundland and Labrador’s Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, John G. Abbott announced the Provincial Government’s commitment to municipal infrastructure improvements for Central Newfoundland through the Multi-Year Capital Works and Municipal Capital Works funding programs.
More than $5.4 million under both cost-shared programs will contribute towards improvements to water and sewer, road infrastructure and recreational enhancements for towns in the area.
“Government’s municipal funding programs help position municipalities to enhance infrastructure in towns and communities throughout the province which, in turn, benefits the residents living there. We look to the municipal leaders to provide insight into infrastructure projects on how best to improve their communities, and our funding commitment allows them to achieve those goals. The funding we have announced today covers an array of projects that will positively impact the people in Central Newfoundland,” said Abbott.
Under the Multi-Year Capital Works (MYCW) funding program, the Town of Gander has received $4.06 million to build an outdoor ice rink; replace existing infrastructure on Sullivan Avenue; as well as a sport facility enhancement program.
“Here in the District of Gander, as well as in many other municipalities throughout our province, infrastructure improvements are contributing to the lives of those who live and work in our towns and communities. Enhancing municipal services also enhances the experience of users, and I am very pleased with the funding that has been allocated for my district for projects focused on everything from recreational needs to drinking water improvements,” said John Haggie, Minister of Municipal Affairs and MHA for Gander.
The Town of Appleton has received approximately $927,000 for water and sewer upgrades, as well as a new road for the town. Additionally, the Town of Gambo has received approximately $492,000 for a new generator for its chlorine house which would provide safe drinking water to residents in the event of a prolonged power outage, as well as a generator for the Fire Hall to allow it to act as a warming/cooling centre in the event of adverse weather events/prolonged power outages.
“Appleton is experiencing unprecedented growth like never before, and we are very pleased with this funding for both water and sewer and road infrastructure improvements. For towns like ours, we cannot overstate the importance of a cost-shared funding arrangement like this one which allows us to focus on much-needed municipal infrastructure improvements. These upgrades will have a very positive impact on our residents, as well as those who visit the area,” said Garrett Watton, Mayor of Appleton.
Budget 2024 includes provincial support of $31 million in 2024-25 ($70 million over three years) in support of the Multi-Year Capital Works funding program. Currently, 62 projects have been approved under this program, totaling $61.5 million, including the municipal share. For towns and communities that have the capacity to make multi-year commitments, funding is cost shared between provincial and municipal governments for three-year blocks of funding under this program. These recipients are larger municipalities throughout the province and projects typically focus on water and/or sewer, paving and/or road construction, municipal buildings and recreation facilities.
A total of $50 million over five years is also included in the Budget for the Municipal Capital Works program, which fosters the development of cost-shared projects for many types of municipal infrastructure. To date, 70 projects at a cost of approximately $60 million have been approved under the program for 2024-25.
Typical projects include water and waste-water treatment, seawalls, and climate mitigation efforts. Funding is cost-shared between provincial and municipal governments and is available to municipalities, local service districts and Inuit Community Governments. The provincial share is $47 million.
“We are thrilled to be the recipient of the Multi-Year Capital Works funding for Gander, which will cost-share projects including essential road work, water and sewer improvements, and enhancements to our recreation facilities. This consistent funding stream provides municipalities an opportunity to plan for capital projects and leverage provincial funds effectively. For instance, the playground where we stand today is a $236,500 project, with the Town of Gander contributing only a fraction of the cost. This partnership with the Provincial Government allows us to make significant improvements to our community while ensuring fiscal sustainability,” said Percy Farwell, Mayor of Gander. |
