The recently announced flexibility in the approvals under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Plan is a significant move in getting construction projects contributing to the country’s economic recovery, the Canadian Construction Association and others wrote in a letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau June 19.
The letter noted the construction industry has demonstrated its ability to “respond quickly, safely and effectively to the COVID-19 pandemic” in its delivery of projects for all levels of governments, Indigenous communities and private projects.” It was signed by CCA President Mary Van Buren, John D. Gamble, president of the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies, Canada and Mark Romoff, president of the Canadian Council for Public-Private Partnerships.
“We urge you in this critical ramp-up phase to remain laser-focused on getting tenders out, reducing red tape, continuing to work collaboratively with provinces, municipalities and Indigenous communities, considering projects of all sizes, sectors and regions while ensuring they are smart and shovel ready, and remaining flexible on additional costs and time delays because of COVID-19,” the letter said.
“Businesses throughout the design, construction and facilities maintenance supply chain that have work can confidently rehire or grow their staff and employ apprentices safely and with purpose.”
Click here to read a copy of the letter.