Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Residential and Civil Construction Alliance of Ontario (RCCAO) says Ontario’s commitment to infrastructure and transportation projects in this week’s provincial budget is good news.
“The investments the government is making in critical infrastructure across the board will provide meaningful economic benefits in terms of creating jobs, stimulating the economy and improving the quality of life for Ontarians,” said RCCAO executive director Nadia Todorova.
“RCCAO supports the many investments highlighted in the budget, including the significant highway expansion and bridge rehabilitation work across the province, the continuation of the necessary investments in broadband infrastructure and the continued progress on the four major transit projects in the region.”
The infrastructure investments announced in the budget – $145 billion over the next 10 years, including $16.9 billion in 2021-22 is “welcomed”.
“We commend the Province for protecting Ontario’s economy and understanding that investing in infrastructure is one of the best ways to help Ontario fire on all cylinders again,” Todorova said.
“RCCAO is pleased to see that the government remains committed to assisting municipalities in efforts to address the continued challenges of the pandemic. It is imperative that the
Province of Ontario continues to work closely with the Government of Canada to ensure that municipalities have the resources they need to keep capital investments on track and deliver critical public services.
The Progressive Contractors Association of Canada (PCA) also applauded the commitment to infrastructure funding.
“We’re delighted the province recognizes the crucial role of construction in rebuilding Ontario’s economy,” said Stephen Hamilton, director of public affairs, Ontario. “The budget makes significant investments in infrastructure, including major transit projects and hospitals. This goes a long way in providing companies and workers with the opportunity to put their skills to work.”
The government’s plan to increase funding for flexible childcare supports through tax credit top ups will also benefit the construction industry where many people work early in the morning or late at night or may be required to travel.
“Our skilled workers need flexibility and support when choosing childcare options. This tax credit delivers on both measures, providing support to women, men and families that continue to build our essential infrastructure,” said Karen Renkema, vice-president Ontario, for PCA.
Skills Ontario says the budget recognizes skilled trade and technology careers are vital to the economy and essential to post-pandemic recovery.
“We are thrilled to continue our strong partnership with the Ontario government and the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development, and we support the budget announced today,” said Ian Howcroft, CEO of Skills Ontario. “Working together and inspiring the next generation of skilled trade and technology leaders is crucial to our success as a province, and as Skills Ontario made the successful pivot to offering virtual programing, we are looking forward to continuing to provide learning opportunities to Ontarians.”
In particular, Skills Ontario applauds the government’s commitment to providing funding to assist women, racialized individuals, Indigenous peoples, youth and people with disabilities who are facing the highest rates of unemployment during the pandemic.