jan-2018

62 63 support electric vehicle and alternative fuel infra- structure; promote active transportation (such as integrated bike lanes and bike paths); and encour- age the adoption of vehicles that use a renewable fuel source (such as fleet electrification of a public transit fleet). “We are also investing in climate change adap- tation and disaster mitigation–projects that will help communities to withstand and adapt to climate change impacts. For example, our $2 bil- lion Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund will be a national, competitive, merit-based program that supports projects that mitigate current and future climate risks, such as floods, wildfires, and droughts by building or reinforcing both con- structed infrastructure (such as dykes and winter ice roads replacement) and natural infrastructure (such as natural shorelines and wetlands). “Finally, we are making strategic investments in projects that improve our environment; projects that help communities to treat and manage water and wastewater and reduce or remediate soil and air pollutants. Funding may include investments in natural infrastructure as well as upgrades to water, wastewater infrastructure; replacement of diesel storage tanks; and the reduction of the environmental impact of landfills.” BVM: Why is it important to integrate both local business and governments in community and infrastructure development? Sohi: “Local leaders know best what their com- munities need to be successful and sustainable. That is why Infrastructure Canada has worked closely with municipalities and stakeholder groups to develop the Investing in Canada plan. “By being part of the discussion at the very beginning, local businesses and governments can identify the infrastructure investments that their community needs, and can ensure that projects are prioritized early on. Local businesses and gov- ernments can see first-hand the need for infrastruc- ture projects such as: n New community centers that act as valuable spaces for communities to come together. n New,modern buses that help seniors get to the grocery store and help parents get their children to the doctor. n New and upgraded water and wastewater treatment facilities,which ensure that our children have access to clean water. “Additionally, infrastructure can help create so- cio-economic benefits in communities that receive infrastructure investments, and we want to make sure that we take these benefits into account and track their impacts. “Working with a wide range of partners–and in consultation with representatives from community, industry and labor organizations–Infrastructure Canada is developing a Community Employment Benefits Reporting Framework to ensure that all Ca- nadians can benefit from the opportunities created by our long-term infrastructure investments.The framework will encourage the creation of employ- ment opportunities for vulnerable or under-rep- resented populations, as well as local residents, youth, veterans, and apprentices. The framework will also promote opportunities for small and medium enterprises and social enterprises in infrastructure-related procurement processes.” THE MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND COMMUNITIES OF CANADA