Ontario Construction Secretariat welcomes new leadership at Queen’s Park
By Staff Report
Construction InfrastructureNew Premier Kathleen Wynne is taking over the helm of a province with exciting opportunities in the construction sector, but it is vital that her administration continues to invest in construction and infrastructure, says the Ontario Construction Secretariat (OCS).
Ontario is at a critical juncture in the construction industry. Sustained, predictable investment in new roads, sewers, buildings and facilities by the Wynne government will drive economic growth in Ontario communities and enhance productivity.
“We are excited about the opportunity to work with the new premier and her cabinet,” says Sean Strickland,chief executive officer of the OCS. “Construction activity adds value to Ontario. Investment in construction and infrastructure supports Ontario families, builds stronger communities and creates opportunities for further growth and development.”
Wynne, who was sworn in as Ontario’s 25thpremier, has already stated that transit is a priority for her leadership. The OCS is excited to see what this will mean for Metrolinx, GO Transit and light rail transit projects across Ontario.
However, it is also important to foster and further develop an ongoing partnership with the federal government to support infrastructure projects. This would include predictable financing for a long-term infrastructure plan that will help municipalities in all parts of the province address their infrastructure deficits. This initiative is vital: The Association of Municipalities of Ontario estimates there is a $60-billion infrastructure gap for Ontario cities and towns.
“The Ontario government has had great success with Infrastructure Ontario,” says Strickland. “We encourage Premier Wynne to not only stay the course for the future, but to go even further. It is of utmost importance that the province work to reduce the gap in infrastructure faced by our municipalities.
“We are seeing opportunities for exciting growth in all regions, which means new jobs and much-needed economic activity.”
For more information on the OCS, please visit www.iciconstruction.com.
