What might have been (or may be?) – Budget 2011 plans for infrastructure, energy and the environment
March 28, 2011
By
Canadian Consulting Engineer
With a federal election now called for May 2, any plans that the Conservative Government of Canada outlined in its budget tabled on March 23 might be a moot point.
With a federal election now called for May 2, any plans that the Conservative Government of Canada outlined in its budget tabled on March 23 might be a moot point.
But for what it’s worth, here are some highlights from Finance Minister Jim Flaherty’s budget for the infrastructure, energy and environmental sectors:
Under the Building Canada plan
Legislating a permanent annual investment of $2 billion in the Gas Tax Fund to provide predictable, long-term infrastructure funding for municipalities.
Providing $228 million over three years to fund repairs and major maintenance to federal bridges in Greater Montréal.
Investing $148 million over the next five years to maintain bridges, dams and other specialized federal assets managed by Public Works and Government Services Canada across Canada.
Providing up to $72 million over three years for repairs to storm-damaged small craft harbours.
Contributing $150 million toward the construction of an all-season road between Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk that completes the Dempster Highway, connecting Canadians from coast to coast to coast.
Investing in a Cleaner Energy Economy
Providing renewed funding of almost $100 million over two years for research, development and demonstrations of clean energy and energy efficiency.
Expanding eligibility for the accelerated capital cost allowance for clean energy generation equipment.
Providing $8 million over two years to promote the deployment of clean energy technologies in Aboriginal and Northern communities.
Protecting Canada’s Natural Environment
$86 million to support clean energy regulatory actions, focusing on energy efficiency.
$400 million in 2011-12 for the ecoENERGY Retrofit – Homes program to help homeowners make their homes more energy efficient and reduce the burden of high energy costs. Further details regarding this program will be announced in the near future.
Providing $5.5 million over five years to Parks Canada to establish the Mealy Mountains National Park in Labrador.
Continuing action to systematically assess, remediate and monitor federal contaminated sites.
Renewing the Chemicals Management Plan with almost $200 million over two years to assess and manage the risk of harmful chemicals.
