London North Centre MP Peter Fragiskatos announces federal funding for infrastructure projects in London and region, June 9, 2017. (Photo by Miranda Chant, Blackburn News)London North Centre MP Peter Fragiskatos announces federal funding for infrastructure projects in London and region, June 9, 2017. (Photo by Miranda Chant, Blackburn News)
London

Feds, Province Announce Infrastructure Funding

The London area has received nearly $9-million from the federal and provincial governments ahead of Canada's 150th birthday.

The announcement of money for infrastructure upgrades in various southwestern Ontario cities and towns was made Friday at Fanshawe Pioneer Village.

The federal portion of the money, $2.25-million, will be used to upgrade parks, trails, and cultural and community centres. The $6.7-million from the province will go to specific Canada 150 celebrations.

"The improvements that will be made will leave a legacy for people to enjoy. In our 150th year, I think it's very important for government to get involved in that," said London North Centre MP Peter Fragiskatos, who announced the funding on behalf of the minister of innovation, science and economic development.

London's cut of the funds is $1.48-million. That will go to improvements at Constitution Park and the Covent Garden Market outdoor rink, the addition of a splash pad at Queen's Park, and the expansion of the Kiwanis Park path system. There will also be funding for the Confederation Celebration at Fanshawe Pioneer Village, SesquiFest Ontario, and a tree planting event by ReForest London.

"Certainly government has a role when it comes to infrastructure, roads, tunnels, bridges, but we can go beyond that and support those small scale projects that allow for greater interaction. They allow for people to really get out and enjoy their cities and towns. That's what these projects do," said Fragiskatos.

Without the federal funds, the Covent Garden Market would have lost its outdoor rink entirely, as the refrigerant used to freeze the ice is no longer considered environmentally friendly.

"There wasn't the dollars to upgrade the system to one that meets current environmental codes and the federal government came through with the infrastructure grant. We are extremely excited," said Bob Usher, general manager of the market.

Oxford's off-road trail, Ilderton's skateboard park, and the historic Uncle Tom's Cabin in Chatham-Kent are also getting a portion of the funding for improvements and rehabilitation.

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