Released on August 11, 2005
Saskatoon residents will enjoy better traffic flow on a wider 25th Street that will also boast improved lighting and a wider sidewalk thanks to an investment of more than $4.2 million from federal, provincial and municipal governments through the Canada-Saskatchewan Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund (C-S MRIF).Federal Finance Minister Ralph Goodale, Saskatchewan Government Relations Minister Len Taylor and Saskatoon Mayor Donald Atchison announced the funding today. The governments of Canada and Saskatchewan will contribute $1,063,282 each, while the City of Saskatoon will provide the remaining $2,126,567.
"The Government of Canada is working with the province and municipalities to build and improve public infrastructure for a high quality of life and economic opportunities in our communities," said Minister Goodale on behalf of the Honourable Stephen Owen, Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport). "These MRIF investments in Saskatoon ensure the city remains a desirable destination for travelers, immigrants and investors. That's what the New Deal for Cities and Communities is all about."
"Saskatchewan's $1.1 million investment in the Saskatoon 25th Street Upgrade is part of our government's commitment to fund municipal and regional infrastructure for our communities," Taylor said. "The Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund enables our municipalities to plan, finance and deliver on their infrastructure priorities."
"Improving the flow of traffic on 25th Street will have a tremendous positive impact on motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians," Atchison said. "This is one of our busiest streets and these upgrades will help everyone get to their destinations quicker and safer. It's yet another enhancement that makes Saskatoon shine."
The federal and provincial governments are investing $76 million in the four-year Canada-Saskatchewan Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund, which was signed on Jan. 14th, 2005.
Participating communities will contribute one-half the cost of any project, bringing the total infrastructure investment to at least $152 million.
With the August 4th announcement of the Regina wastewater-drainage improvement project, more than $5.4 million in federal-provincial funds have been invested in MRIF projects worth over $13 million.
Before receiving final approval, community projects undergo a review process under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act and the provincial Environmental Assessment Act. All mitigating factors will be addressed during the construction phase.
For more information on the Government of Canada and the Government of Saskatchewan's infrastructure programs, visit www.municipal.gov.sk.ca/mrd/prosimsi.shtml or www.infrastructure.gc.ca.
Federal funding for this initiative was provided for in Budget 2005.
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For More Information, Contact:
| Maureen Boyle Government Relations Regina Phone: (306) 787-5959 | Joanne Mysak Western Economic Diversification Canada Saskatoon Phone: (306) 975-5942 |