GOLDEN, B.C. – The feds and the province of B.C. have reached an infrastructure funding agreement that will benefit commercial transport in that province.

A deal inked under the new Building Canada Plan was reached between the province and the federal government. On-hand to mark the occasion were Prime Minister Stephen Harper and B.C. Premier Gordon Campbell, as well as other dignitaries. The landmark funding arrangement will provide the province with $2.2 billion over the next seven years to be invested in roads, bridges, tunnels, ports and transit.

“British Columbia will now be assured predictable funding to restore and upgrade infrastructure systems,” said Harper. “Building Canada is about investing in our country’s future. It’s about a stronger economy, a cleaner environment and more prosperous communities.”

The new deal provides more funding over a longer period of time than any previous federal infrastructure initiative, Harper announced. He noted the federal government is spending $33 billion in infrastructure projects across the country.

“I thank Prime Minister Harper for working with us to make B.C. the first province to sign onto the Building Canada Fund that will help meet the needs of a growing population and strong economy,” said Campbell. “These funds will be used on a cost-sharing basis to support provincial infrastructure priorities, including transportation; tourism; public transit; green energy; and waste and water systems.”

The deal was announced on the Trans-Canada Highway in the Kicking Horse Pass. About $64.2 million in federal funds will be spent on highway improvements in the area under the new deal.

“The upgrades will ensure that commercial traffic keeps moving efficiently and people keep getting to their destinations safely,” said Harper.