The federal, provincial and local governments have announced 30 million dollars in funding for three infrastructure projects in Niagara, and one in Norfolk County.
The City of Welland will see the construction of a bridge over the Welland Canal at the site of the former Forks Road lift bridge, which was demolished in 2019.
Officials says the new bridge will reopen a 'key transportation link' that was used by 3,500 vehicles daily to access Welland and other parts of the Niagara Region.
Other projects include the reconstruction of parts of Drummond Road, Gallinger Street, and Portage Road in the City of Niagara Falls and the reconstruction and rehabilitation of St. Ann’s Road and bridge in West Lincoln.
The announcement also included the replacement of Big Creek Bridge to include a new two-lane structure in Norfolk County.
The Government of Canada is investing more than $9.9 million in these projects through the Rural and Northern Communities Infrastructure Stream (RNIS) of the Investing in Canada plan. The Government of Ontario is also contributing over $6.6 million; and the municipalities involved are contributing over $17.8 million combined to the projects.
“The City of Welland appreciates the contribution from the provincial and federal governments which will be used to replace the Forks Road Canal Crossing. This connection is imperative for the citizens of Welland, especially the residents of Dain City connecting the east and west side of the canal. This will enable faster access to highway and other transportation routes. This funding brings us one step closer to replacing the bridge.”
His Worship Frank Campion, Mayor of Welland.