Ottawa projects collect $11.2M from feds, province
Several municipal and community-infrastructure projects around Ottawa will receive more than $11 million in funding from the federal and provincial governments to help respond to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The majority of funding will support the rehabilitation of community and municipal buildings across the city, and improve active transportation options.
The Carling Family Shelter, for example, will benefit from improved air ventilation and digital connectivity, while the Cornerstone Women's Shelter will undergo building renovations and repairs to the electrical, mechanical and security systems, as well as upgraded flooring.
Additional investments will improve sidewalks and multi-use pathways, create new pedestrian crossovers, and add new picnic facilities and wayfinding signage in public areas, facilitating active lifestyles, increased connectivity, and expanded active transportation.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on the wellbeing of all Canadians. As we continue to battle this crisis, we are ensuring that residents of Ottawa have access to safe and inclusive community spaces,” said Infrastructure and Communities Minister Catherine McKenna. “Federal funding is supporting projects across the city, from multi-use pathways and picnic facilities to public Wi-Fi access. We are also rehabilitating the Carling Family Shelter and Cornerstone Women's Shelter so they can continue the great work that they do, providing critical services to our most vulnerable residents of Ottawa, and ensure that they are in a comfortable and safe environment."
The COVID-19 Resilience Infrastructure Stream, implemented in response to the pandemic, allows the Government of Canada to invest up to 80 percent of eligible costs for projects in provinces.
The federal government is investing over $8.9 million in the projects, while the Government of Ontario is contributing more than $2.2 million.
"The City of Ottawa is grateful for this support from our federal and provincial partners, which will help us provide safe, accessible and inviting spaces for everyone,” said Mayor Jim Watson. “This funding will also assist us in making improvements to active transportation infrastructure in our city, which promotes physical activity and connectivity, and helps improve neighbourhood livability."
The City of Ottawa released a full list of approved projects on its website.