As the possibility of a trade war looms, Burlington is identifying priority infrastructure projects that could be fast-tracked through expected provincial and federal stimulus funding. Approximately $32 million worth of road and bridge projects have been shortlisted for potential early implementation.
Among the highlighted projects are the reconstruction of sections of Walkers Line and Upper Middle Road, along with the rehabilitation of the Wolfe Island Bridge on Plains Road West, near the Royal Botanical Garden. These projects, initially scheduled for the future, could be advanced sooner with stimulus support aimed at sustaining local employment and bolstering the economy amid trade-related challenges.
On April 15, Burlington City Council unanimously passed a motion directing staff to compile a list of infrastructure projects that could quickly move forward if stimulus programs are introduced. This list is set to be presented at the May 12 Committee of the Whole meeting.
“In anticipation of the negative economic impacts from American tariffs, higher levels of government are expected to roll out stimulus funding for infrastructure,” the motion stated.
During the recent provincial election campaign, Premier Doug Ford committed to a $22 billion infrastructure stimulus package, should his government be re-elected, as a proactive measure against a potential trade war with the U.S.
City staff are currently reviewing Burlington’s 10-year capital forecast to identify projects that could be expedited. These projects will span various asset types and timelines to align with future funding program requirements, according to a city spokesperson.
Ontario’s Big City Mayors, led by Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward, also passed a motion on April 11 urging both provincial and federal governments to create municipal stimulus strategies. These would aim to fast-track infrastructure, housing, transit, and other vital projects to shield local economies from tariff-related fallout.
An appendix to the motion included Burlington’s proposed road and bridge projects as examples of initiatives that could benefit from such funding.
Anita Cassidy, Executive Director of Burlington Economic Development and Tourism, emphasized the importance of being “shovel-ready” to attract new investments and support existing businesses amid economic uncertainty.
“Projects that enhance transportation access, industrial land servicing, or prepare land for development are particularly beneficial,” Cassidy noted, citing ongoing supply chain and market instability as critical pressures on local businesses.
A spokesperson for Premier Ford confirmed that the proposed $22 billion stimulus would be in addition to existing infrastructure plans. While specific details or timelines have not yet been released, the province reiterated its commitment to working with municipalities to ensure they are equipped to act swiftly when the funding becomes available.
“With the uncertainty caused by U.S. tariffs, our government is ready to act,” said Ford’s spokesperson, Hannah Jensen. “We are leveraging our $200-billion infrastructure plan to keep workers on the job and continue building Ontario’s roads, transit, housing, hospitals, and schools.”
