The total permit value of $26.4 million is about $10 million higher than the value of permits issued in February of this year, but still off the pace set a year ago.

Originally announced in 2017, the project calls for the development of a 325-bed, multi-purpose correctional facility. The new facility will replace Thunder Bay's existing jail and correctional centre and improve access to programming, living conditions and education.

Premier Doug Ford is expected to make the announcement at a news conference this afternoon. Sources say the order will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Thursday morning and last for four weeks.

With construction set to start on four large projects in the next 12 months, the city could consider taking out $115 million in loans to fund construction.

Three communities in Ontario’s north will share in the funding, with each using the money to hire or extend the positions of their respective economic development officers.