Thunder Bay celebrates local infrastructure improvements

Projects possible thanks to federal Gas Tax Fund

February26, 2015 ThunderBay, Ontario Infrastructure Canada

Residents of ThunderBay are benefitting from a series of local infrastructure improvements, thanks to contributions from the federal Gas Tax Fund. Joint investments from the federal and municipal governments supported a number of projects in 2014, including local road infrastructure rehabilitations, railway crossing upgrades, and the design of a new retaining wall on one of the city's most prominent streets.

In total, six local roads were improved throughout the city. Cornwall Avenue was completely reconstructed to include the addition of new sewers and water mains. Leslie Avenue and Lithium Drive were both repaved, as were Arthur Street, Begin Street and Edward Street; the latter will also boast new curbs, sidewalks, street lights, water mains and storm sewers in spring2015. The newly rehabilitated roads will help improve traffic flow and increase safety, while sewer upgrades will contribute to protecting the environment and residents' well-being.

Meanwhile, upgrades were also completed on the Canadian Pacific (CP) Island Drive and the Canadian National (CN) Mountdale Avenue spur track crossings. Work included the addition of new rail and new asphalt intersection surfaces to improve rideability and ensure safe and smooth travel for trains passing through the city. Planning and design has also begun on the replacement of a 100-year-old retaining wall on High Street. Replacing the wall will reduce long-term maintenance and repair costs while ensuring motorists' safety.

"Our Government is pleased to provide ThunderBay with flexible infrastructure funding that allows the city to support a multitude of projects. These local road and rail improvements, made possible by the Federal Gas Tax Fund, will ensure that drivers and train passengers can enjoy safe and smooth travel for years to come. The federal Gas Tax Fund will continue to aid municipalities like ThunderBay, and continue to generate economic growth across Ontario."

- The Honourable Greg Rickford, Minister of Natural Resources, Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario and Member of Parliament for Kenora

"We are pleased that the Federal Government is supporting our efforts to address our City's infrastructure needs. Improvements to infrastructure such as bridges, sidewalks, street lights and water mains play a critical role in the vitality of our City and contribute to quality of life for citizens, as well as visitors. This funding represents an ongoing investment in a healthy, vibrant, connected and strong City."

- His Worship Keith Hobbs, Mayor of ThunderBay

Vincent Rabault Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Infrastructure, Communities and Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec 613-943-1838

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Thunder Bay celebrates local infrastructure improvements