Ottawa plans to issue a call for proposals in the coming weeks for B.C. transportation projects that will increase trade to Asia, to use up money that was never spent under the Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative (APGCI).
There is $50 million of funding being reallocated, due to B.C. projects that were approved but never went forward, according to Transport Canada.
“With some previously proposed projects in British Columbia not proceeding for various reasons, the province, municipalities, Canada Port Authorities and other stakeholders engaged in British Columbia’s transportation system will have the opportunity to apply for funding for new proposals that will help increase Canadian exports to Asia,” Transport Canada’s news release states.
The program appears to be aimed at shovel-ready projects, since the deadline for application and approval is tight. Applications for funding must be submitted by December 12, and approved projects must be completed by March 31, 2016.
“Our government is committed to helping our exporters reach fast-growing Asia-Pacific markets by continuing to boost Canada's competitive advantages,” said Ed Fast, federal minister of International Trade and Asia-Pacific Gateway.
“That is why we are ensuring that all of the funds committed to helping better facilitate Canadian exports to Asia are utilized. New projects will help create jobs, growth and prosperity in local communities and ensure the Asia-Pacific Gateway remains North America's gateway of choice to Asia.”
The APGCI was created to fund projects in B.C. that facilitate trade between Canada and Asia by improving the flow of goods and traffic, locally and internationally.
One recent example is the Combo Project in the Roberts Bank Rail Corridor, which involves the construction of rail-crossing highway overpasses in Surrey.
The $121.5 million project is receiving $43 million in federal money under APGCI program, with $25.6 million coming from Port Metro Vancouver, $25.5 million from B.C., $13.6 million from the City of Surrey, $8.3 million from the City of Langley and $5.5 million from the Township of Langley.
