New legislation has tabled several infrastructure projects the province says it’ll help deliver key services including schools, hospitals and other core services.
According to the province, the legislation will help speed up major projects by increasing how applications and permits are issued.
Premier David Eby says the new legislation was developed to help deal with the uncertainty of the threat of tariffs.
“At a time of uncertainty caused by Donald Trump’s tariffs, it’s more important than ever that we create more good-paying jobs by delivering critical infrastructure projects people need,” he says. “This legislation is designed to speed up permitting and approvals to get shovels in the ground more quickly on priority projects.”
Over the past few years, the province says BC has welcomed a vast number of new faces and this has resulted in delays for needed infrastructure projects.
They add the new bill will reduce those times and strengthen the economy.
Minister of infrastructure Bowinn Ma says capital projects need to be streamlined and more cost-effective for everyone across the province.
“This legislation is the next step forward,” Ma says. “As we work to deliver projects faster, this gives us the tools to accelerate key projects and help strengthen our province, while maintaining our commitments to advancing reconciliation and protecting the environment.
If passed the new legislation would also see several significant projects developed by other partners including Crown corporations, local governments, First Nations, and private proponents.
–Files by Justin Baumgardner, My Cowichan Valley Now
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