Carney government rolls out $51B infrastructure program

(Horizon Media) – The Canadian government has formally launched a major national infrastructure program aimed at boosting housing supply and modernizing public services, with Prime Minister Mark Carney announcing the first funded project in Ontario.

The Build Communities Strong Fund, first outlined in Budget 2025, will invest $51 billion over the next decade to accelerate construction of key infrastructure across the country. The program targets projects tied to housing growth and economic productivity, including hospitals, transit systems, water infrastructure, and community facilities.

Carney announced that the fund’s first project will be the Embleton Community Centre and Park in Brampton, backed by a $64 million federal investment. The planned 175,000-square-foot facility will include a pool, gymnasium, childcare services, and community spaces. It is part of an initial group of 13 projects receiving roughly $300 million in federal funding.

Ottawa says the fund is designed to leverage significantly larger investments from other levels of government. Provincial contributions are expected to bring nearly $17 billion in matching funds, alongside additional municipal and private sector investment. The government projects the program will support around 42,000 jobs annually and boost Canada’s GDP by $95 billion over the next decade.

The funding will be delivered through three main streams: $17.2 billion for provinces and territories to build major public infrastructure; $6 billion for direct federal delivery of regionally significant projects; and $27.8 billion for local community infrastructure, such as roads, water systems, and recreation centres.

A portion of the funding is earmarked for healthcare upgrades, housing-enabling infrastructure, and post-secondary institutions. Provinces will be required to match federal funding and take steps to reduce construction costs, including lowering development charges that can hinder housing projects.

The initiative also includes a “Buy Canadian” requirement to direct public spending toward domestic industries and jobs.

Officials say the program forms part of a broader push to address housing shortages and infrastructure gaps, while strengthening economic growth and resilience across the country.