September 25, 2009
Governments Fund Local Infrastructure

NANAIMO – Canada, B.C. and Nanaimo have approved a joint investment of $12.2 million through the Building Canada Fund and Infrastructure Stimulus Fund to get shovels in the ground on three local projects.  These projects will benefit local residents by creating jobs, helping to boost the local the economy, and build longer-lasting local infrastructure.

“The phase II expansion of the Nanaimo Airport will ensure that the upgraded runway and navigational equipment will be matched by an expanded terminal facility to accommodate the growing base of travellers using Nanaimo Airport as their point of departure and arrival,” says MP James Lunney. “The transformed airport will open a new chapter of economic opportunities for the entire mid island.”

“This funding has countless positive implications for not only Nanaimo, but for central and north Vancouver Island,” says Parksville-Qualicum MLA Ron Cantelon. “Improvements to our ports, both air and ocean, will open our fair city to even more tourists and boost our local economy. These projects will also create jobs today and keep British Columbians working.”

“The City of Nanaimo is extremely pleased funding for our airport improvements has been confirmed,” says Nanaimo Mayor John Ruttan. “The City has worked closely with the Nanaimo Airport Authority on their expansion plans and we are very appreciative for the funding opportunity.”

The combined Federal, Provincial and Municipal funds for infrastructure projects are as follows:

• $10,369,370 will go to phase II of the Nanaimo Airport improvements. Renovations will accommodate increased passenger demand by expanding the terminal, parking lot and improving water and sewer facilities. The project compliments Phase 1, which included the extension of the existing runway, improved approaches and runway lighting.

Also approved is $962,115 for the Departure Bay Ferry Terminal sewage pump ashore and $954,030 for the Duke Point Ferry Terminal sewage pump ashore.

The Government of Canada's 2009 Economic Action Plan includes a vast array of initiatives to help to stimulate the economy, create jobs, build consumer confidence, and assist Canadians when they need it most during this global economic recession.  New large-scale infrastructure programs are one important element of this plan.

The project is funded under the Province's three-year, $14-billion capital infrastructure program that will create up to 88,000 jobs and help build vital public infrastructure in every region of B.C.

Since February about 480 projects worth $3.4 billion have been announced. These will create an estimated 21,600 jobs in communities across British Columbia.

For more information on the Building Canada plan, visit www.buildingcanada.gc.ca or www.bcbuildingcanadafundcommunities.ca. Information on the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund is available at www.creatingjobs.gc.ca.

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