Municipal Relations Minister Andrew Smith announced Tuesday in Gimll that the Manitoba government is investing $84 million to provide funding to support infrastructure undertakings in communities outside Winnipeg.
"Our government remains committed to building stronger communities, and the new Municipal Economic Development Infrastructure Program is designed to foster economic growth and opportunities for Manitoba municipalities through shared priority projects that address current and emerging infrastructure needs," says Smith. "This funding will empower rural municipalities to create stronger, more resilient communities that will flourish for years to come."
The province outlined in a press release that this investment includes one-time funding of up to $39.9 million, which will be distributed to all municipalities outside Winnipeg per capita to help mitigate high inflation levels.
The funding will reportedly be provided through the annual strategic infrastructure basket available to municipalities outside Winnipeg.
Minister Smith adds that up to $44.5 million of incremental funding to the strategic infrastructure basket will be available to municipalities through the new Municipal Economic Development Infrastructure Program in 2023-24.
According to the province, this application-based program will support strategic infrastructure projects focused on economic development, renewal and innovation, including:
- critical projects that improve public safety, such as roads, bridges and active transportation;
- inter-modal transportation such as airports; and
- solid waste management and organic diversion.
Kam Blight, Association of Manitoba Municipalities President, says the announcement demonstrates the Manitoba government's commitment to partnering with municipalities.
"This additional funding will not only have a significant impact but also help advance infrastructure projects that connect all of us as Manitobans."