The city is already planning on how it will make use of the million of dollars it expects to receive from the federal and provincial governments.
In a report released Tuesday, the city lists about 50 “ready-to-go” improvement projects that might be eligible for special funding.
Last week’s federal budget announced more than $6 billion for infrastructure spending in municipalities nationwide. Ottawa could get as much as $430 million.
But so far, neither the provincial nor federal government has announced how cities can apply.
City staff indicated this morning’s report was an effort to prepare for the windfall.
“Our goal is to be ready as quickly as possible so when we do know what’s the deal we can move on this,” said city manager Kent Kirkpatrick.
Among the suggested projects were recreation facility improvements, plans to update sewage systems and roads and the transitway extension from Fallowfield to Barrhaven.
Some councillors in attendance had immediate concerns about what was left off the list.
Counc. Alex Cullen voiced his disappointment the city’s problem with sewage overflow into the Ottawa River –a problem requiring a multi-million dollar solution the city has only partly funded – wasn’t addressed.
“I think sewage overflow is a higher priority than a new outdoor soccer stadium,” Cullen said.
The report suggested projects totalling as much as $340 million in the infrastructure stimulus category, $84 million in social housing, $38 million for community recreation and 14 million under cultural infrastructure. Staff suggested not one “ready-to-project” under the fund allotted for green or sustainable energy projects.
After the public and city councillors offer further suggestions, a final list will be drawn up.
The list will go before council for discussion as soon as the federal government announces the application and eligibility criteria for the funding.