NEWS RELEASE

Mayor Kelly to Discuss Funding for HRM Infrastructure Projects
at Big City Mayors' Caucus

(Wednesday, January 14/09) B Mayor Peter Kelly will be attending the Big City Mayors' Caucus (BCMC) of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities' (FCM) in Ottawa today to discuss ongoing economic challenges and opportunities leading into the First Ministers' Meeting, Speech from the Throne and Federal Budget.

"Given the economic situation our country is facing, it's crucial for municipalities to explore opportunities that will contribute to stimulating the economy," said Mayor Kelly. "Quality infrastructure improves productivity, attracts new investment and can build a more sustainable, greener Canada."

The FCM has invited municipal leaders to share a list of infrastructure projects at this week's caucus, which currently cannot start without additional federal funding.

HRM faces significant pressure with regard to its aging infrastructure and is striving to keep it in safe working condition. HRM has an infrastructure gap in excess of 1.5 Billion, including community-owned assets.

"Our Regional Plan lays out HRM's vision for the next 25 years taking into consideration our existing infrastructure deficit and works toward decreasing it," explains Mayor Kelly. "With additional federal funding, some of HRM's infrastructure projects could get started in 2009."

Today's Caucus will unveil a Canada-wide report detailing a snapshot of shovel-ready municipal infrastructure projects.

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Mayor Peter Kelly
Halifax Regional Municipality
(902) 222-9999