NEW WESTMINSTER – New Democrat MLAs Jennifer Whiteside and Aman Singh say that an historic investment of nearly $16 million for the City of Westminster will enable the community to fund key projects, ensuring that people have services they can rely on as populations grow.

“New Westminster is a vibrant city, and our local services and infrastructure must adapt to meet the challenges of today while also planning for the future,” says Jennifer Whiteside, MLA for New Westminster. “I’m looking forward to continuing to work with Mayor Johnstone and Council to deliver results for the people of New Westminster.”

As communities continue to grow, local governments are having to meet increased strain on infrastructure and amenities including, roads, transit, water and electrical systems, as well as community centers, parks and social services. The Growing Communities Fund is a landmark investment that will see the BCNDP government distribute $1 billion across B.C.’s 188 municipalities and regional districts to support their unique needs.

“As we continue to recover from challenging times as a province, our New Democrat government is investing in communities so they can provide the services people count on,” says Aman Singh, MLA for Richmond-Queensborough. “This support will help build communities where everyone can thrive.”

In New Westminster, the City of New Westminster is receiving $15,850,000.

This one-time fund supports the Union of BC Municipalities’ (UBCM) 2022 Resolution EB58, Improving Provincial Grant Process, and recommendation five of their 2021 report, Ensuring Local Government Financial Resiliency. The grants are intended to complement, rather than displace, existing infrastructure funding (like sewer, water, roads).

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/28303