Canada invests in transportation infrastructure improvements at the Port of Nanaimo
The quality of Canada’s transportation infrastructure and the efficiency of the country’s trade corridors are key to the success of Canadian companies in the global marketplace. The Government of Canada invests in infrastructure projects that create quality, middle-class jobs and support economic growth, Tansport Canada says in a press release.
Today, the Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, announced a major investment of $46.2 million for a project that will increase capacity at the Port of Nanaimo, and move Canadian goods to international markets more efficiently.
The Duke Point Terminal will be expanded to provide greater connection between Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland. Expansion will reduce congestion at the terminal thereby improving capacity to ship and receive goods to and from international markets.
The work includes:
- expanding the existing wharf from 182 metres to 325 metres;
- building a new warehouse, a new administration and maintenance building, and a new truck gate;
- replacing the existing crane with two 24-metre cranes;
- increasing the terminal’s storage area; and
- upgrading the drainage, sewer, electrical, water and security systems around the terminal.
These investments are expected to have important economic and employment benefits for the region by creating an estimated 900 jobs in the region during construction.
Minister Garneau also toured the Port of Nanaimo’s new Vehicle Processing Centre that opened in April of this year and for which the Government of Canada invested $6.3 million. The 60,000 square-foot centre improves Canada’s supply chain for automobiles imported into the country, and addresses congestion while also providing sustainable economic development opportunities for Nanaimo and Vancouver Island.
The Government of Canada is supporting infrastructure projects that contribute most to Canada’s success in international trade. Trade diversification is a key component of the National Trade Corridors Fund, funding projects that:
- improve the fluidity and performance of the transportation system to increase the value and volume of goods exported from Canada to overseas markets; and
- generate new overseas trade as a result of the investment.
About Transport Canada
Transport Canada is responsible for transportation policies and programs. It promotes safe, secure, efficient and environmentally-responsible transportation. Transport Canada reports to Parliament and Canadians through the minister of Transport. It works with its portfolio partners, other government departments and jurisdictions, and industry to ensure that all parts of Canada's transportation system work well. Transport Canada employs about 5,000 people at its headquarters and in five regional offices across the country.
