As part of its federal election advocacy strategy, the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies-Canada (ACEC) has launched a new website to educate candidates, political parties and the public on what it sees as two key issues: accelerating and sustaining infrastructure investments and creating a national infrastructure corridor. 

InvestInfrastructure.ca describes both issues in detail. On the subject of accelerating infrastructure delivery, ACEC argues that while the federal government’s $180-billion Investing in Canada plan is welcome, delivery is behind schedule. Such investments, says ACEC, “are critical to strengthening the economy and Canada’s competitiveness, and to improving the social and environmental quality of life for Canadians.”

In various presentations and submissions to government, the association has outlines a series of way to accelerate and more evenly distribute investments over the next decade so that communities and owners of infrastructure can make informed decisions and realize the maximum possible benefits from these investments.

The issue of a national infrastructure right of way is more ambitious. The ACEC argues that Canada must establish a national network of infrastructure corridors to accommodate multiple assets, including roadways, railways, pipelines and communication projects. A nationwide network of these corridors would connect all regions of Canada, helping address social and environmental concerns, while allowing progress and economic growth. Projects of similar natures have been under consideration for more than 50 years, but have fallen short due to lack of leadership. ACEC says it is prepared to work with government to make this vision a reality.

Both priorities, says the association, would benefit the economic, social and environmental quality of life of all Canadians. They would drive the economy and connect communities, Canadians and markets.

“The last two governments have made significant progress on infrastructure investment in recent years,” said John Gamble, ACEC president & CEO. “But this election is critical because funds haven’t been flowing as quickly and consistently as either we or they had hoped. Steady, predictable investments are needed to provide the greatest economic benefits to support Canadians and communities. We hope to see any elected government come in with an understanding of how important it is to provide sustained support, and to look at infrastructure investment as a nation building investment – that is infrastructure the right way.” 

Through InvestInfrastructure.ca, visitors can learn more about the association’s proposals and priorities, and send letters to all candidates to show their support for these projects. As the election period progresses, ACEC will post analyses of party platform announcements relating to infrastructure and issues of importance to the consulting engineering sector.