Infrastructure projects get extension

By Laurie Watt Simcoe.com Dec 11, 2010
BARRIE – Barrie has more time to put the finishing touches on tens of millions in infrastructure projects – from creek culverts to roads to an arena upgrade to a new fire station and a new theatre.
Dec. 2, Prime Minister Stephen Harper gave municipalities across the county a real treat: a project extension to Oct. 31, 2011.
Since July 2009, the federal government has invested $16 billion in projects across Canada, as part of its economic action plan. Throughout the Simcoe County area, of 92 projects worth a $336 million, many are wrapping up  – but there are a few that require more than finishing touches.
Partnering with Ontario, major projects in Barrie include a $14-million fire station, a $5.4-million theatre, along with $10 million in road and culvert improvements on Toronto Street.
“The City of Barrie is positioned well to complete the infrastructure stimulus work, in keeping with the original completion dates as planned, due to the skill and expertise of our staff overseeing these critically important community building projects,” said Richard Forward, Barrie’s infrastructure and development general manager.
“The extension of the deadline will benefit our community as we move forward with tendering new work as labour resources become more readily available for the upcoming construction period.”
Barrie MP Patrick Brown lauded the extension, which the federal government granted at the request of municipalities.
The original plan had an ambitious two-year deadline, requiring projects to be complete by March 31, 2011. To qualify for the extension, projects have to be underway and have occurred eligible costs.
“This is very good news for the downtown theatre,” said Brown, who lobbied for the cultural spaces funds – and who was also keen to see the Eastview Arena expanded. That $2-million project includes larger dressing rooms, a new mechanical room – and a new, relocated area to store the Zamboni, which improves spectator safety.
A list of projects is available here.