March 23, 2009

British Columbia announces $800-million infrastructure plan

The B.C. government has pledged to spend almost $800 million on more than 113 infrastructure projects across the province.

“We’re creating jobs, we’re also creating new homes for the homeless here in Vancouver and in other communities, and we’re building other critical infrastructure such as schools and correctional centres,” said Premier Gordon Campbell.

The announcement includes funding for six social housing projects in Vancouver that will cost $172 million and will create 569 housing units.

The Vancouver housing projects alone are expected to create 1,100 direct construction jobs.

Another 11 social housing projects are planned for throughout the province at a cost of $130 million for an additional 478 units.

The government claims that the initiative will create 4,800 jobs, starting this summer. The announcement is part of the province’s three-year $14 billion capital infrastructure program.

Other notable infrastructure projects include:

• $424 million for 30 projects on new construction and renovation of elementary and high schools.

• $59 million for 57 projects to improve courthouses, correctional facilities, and other public safety facilities.

• $8 million for nine projects for the Ministry of Children and Family Development.

JOC NEWS SERVICE

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