Ontario Construction News staff writer
A new Natural Infrastructure Fund will include $120 million for large natural infrastructure projects across the country.
The federal government says the program will support projects that use natural or hybrid approaches to protect the natural environment, support healthy and resilient communities, contribute to economic growth, and improve access to nature for Canadians.
“Now more than ever, Canadians know the positive impact nature can have on our physical and mental well-being, but not all communities have access to local green space, said Catherine McKenna, minister of infrastructure and communities.
“As a part of this fund, up to $20 million is available for the City of Toronto’s Ravine Strategy, which will improve access to nature for residents, protect animals and species, and increase resilience to climate change.”
Select major cities with innovative natural infrastructure strategies will also be invited to apply for funding to up to $20 million.
Toronto’s Ravine Strategy aims to protect, manage, and enhance the ecological services and recreational opportunities provided by an urban ravine network spanning more than 300 kilometres, including in areas where the surrounding neighbourhoods have limited access to green space.
“The $20 million funding for our City’s Ravine Strategy through the Natural infrastructure Fund will help us further advance our goals of building a greener city,” said Mayor John Tory. “By proactively investing in our ravines we can ensure that we are protecting these spaces and enhancing them so future generations can continue to enjoy them.”
Additional details will be announced over the summer about the new funding program. An additional stream will be created under which recipients may submit smaller projects for review through an open and merit-based process. A minimum of ten per cent of the overall program envelope will be allocated to Indigenous recipients.
McKenna says natural infrastructure, particularly in urban areas, creates a connection to nature that contributes to wellness and mental health, and increased access to green spaces promote recreation and social connection.
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Infrastructure Canada has approved more than 3,600 projects, representing more than $9.9 billion in federal investments, under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.