RCCAO supports housing-enabling infrastructure funding from Ontario government

VAUGHAN, ONT. — The Residential and Civil Construction Alliance of Ontario (RCCAO) is commending the Government of Ontario for the recently announced $1.8 billion investment in critical water infrastructure to support the province’s growing municipalities and help get shovels in the ground faster. 

The Ontario government is investing the money in housing-enabling infrastructure to help build at least 1.5 million homes by 2031. The funding includes $1 billion for the new Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program and $625 million more for the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund, bringing its total funding to $825 million.

According to the RCCAO, the funding is welcomed as water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure are essential to accommodate growth and upkeep existing systems flowing smoothly.

Research suggests that, on average across Canada, the cost of municipal infrastructure required to support new housing construction is $107,000 per home, a release indicates.

While the Ontario government should be applauded for stepping up and delivering for municipalities, the absence of the federal government in contributing to these critical investments is concerning, RCCAO stated.

Given that building new housing is a stated priority of the Canadian government, it is imperative that they also recognize their responsibility to contribute to investments in roads and water infrastructure.

RCCAO is calling on the federal government to come to the table and join the Government of Ontario in ensuring municipalities have the funds they need to build housing-enabling infrastructure. 

“Today’s announcement continues the government’s work on ensuring that municipalities have the funding they need to meet the growing demand for infrastructure,” said Nadia Todorova, executive director of RCCAO, in a statement. “From roads to sewers to housing, this announcement ensures that there is funding for all kinds of critical infrastructure needed to support the province’s growing population, unlock more housing opportunities, and spur economic growth.”