York Region is among 11 communities to benefit from the Green Municipal Fund that supports innovative projects that reduce pollution, improve energy efficiency and find new uses for their public infrastructure.
The $27,500 investment will see the region partner with the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority to design a method for optimizing the environmental benefits of low-impact development and green infrastructure features in environmentally sensitive areas.
The Government of Canada and Federation of Canadian Municipalities are investing more than $2.5 million for 11 new projects across the country.
The announcement was made by Catherine McKenna, Canada's minister of Infrastructure and Communities, and Bill Karsten, president of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, the national voice of local governments.
"Cities are key partners in pioneering practical climate solutions. Supporting municipalities in their efforts to build more resilient communities will help Canadians across the country mitigate the worst impacts of climate change," McKenna said in a news release. "By working together, we can create good middle-class jobs, protect the environment and grow the economy."
Other area projects include piloting new technology to reduce sediment and phosphorous released into Lake Simcoe watershed in Innisfil, with $500,000 in funding.
The City of Vaughan is receiving $152,100 for a sustainable neighbourhood action plan for a Thornhill neighbourhood.
"Municipalities are Canada's builders. They own nearly 60 per cent of the public infrastructure that supports Canada's economy and quality of life. Whether it's through better transit, fewer greenhouse gas emissions, or stronger local infrastructure, municipalities are building better lives for Canadians," Karsten said.
The Green Municipal Fund is a $1-billion program, which, since its launch, has invested in more than 1,310 municipal sustainability initiatives.
