jan-2018

58 59 BVM: What are some of the pertinent policies and initiatives that highlight Canadian Communi- ties with respect to Infrastructure and Community Development? Sohi: “The Government of Canada has commit- ted to support communities through strategic infrastructure investments that help create jobs, strengthen the middle class, and reduce green- house gas emissions. “Local leaders know best what their communi- ties need. That’s why we work closely with stake- holders, partners, and all orders of government to support the infrastructure that they identify as necessary for the success of their communi- ties. “We also know that infrastructure is much more than roads and bridges. The Government of Canada’s Investing in Canada infrastructure plan includes $25.3 billion for social infrastruc- ture investments. This funding provides ade- quate and affordable housing and child care, as well as cultural and recreational centers that ensure Canada’s communities continue to be great places to call home. “Infrastructure investments are about helping Canadians connect to their communities: mod- ern, accessible public transit allows people to get around their cities more easily, and reduces gridlock; investing in water and wastewater projects means that parents can trust their children are drinking cleaner, safer water; and improvements to broadband services in rural communities helps local businesses engage and compete in today’s economy.” THE MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND COMMUNITIES OF CANADA BVM: Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, called for a 10-year plan to “Rebuild Canada for the 21st Century.”What are some of the key sectors and initiatives for this plan, i.e. Public Transit, Social Infrastructure, Green Infrastruc- ture, etc.? Sohi: “The Government of Canada’s long- term infrastructure plan, Investing in Canada, is investing more than $180 billion in Cana- da’s infrastructure over 12 years. The plan is aimed at supporting the government’s goal of creating long-term economic growth; build- ing inclusive, sustainable communities; and supporting a low carbon, green economy. “It will be delivered by Infrastructure Canada, in partnership with other federal departments and agencies such as Natural Resources Canada, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, Employment and Social Development Canada, and Transport Canada. My department is responsible for the overall coordination of the plan and for reporting the results to Canadians. “The investments target five key infrastruc- ture streams: public transit, green, social, trade and transportation, and rural and north- ern communities. “We are also looking at innovative ways to help our communities build even more infrastructure. For example, the Canada Infra- structure Bank, which will be operational by the end of this year, will invest $35 billion to attract private sector investment to fund rev- enue-generating infrastructure projects that are in the public interest. “The Prime Minister also recently an- nounced the Smart Cities Challenge, which will encourage communities to think big and adopt new and innovative approaches to community-building. Entries will be judged