Federal government commits $27M for Maley Drive extension in Sudbury

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in Sudbury, Ont., today, and has announced the federal government will spend $26.7 million on the city's Maley Drive extension project.

The first phase of the project will cost $80 million, and the price tag will be split threeways between the city, the province, and the federal government.

"In partnership with the government of Ontario and the City of Sudbury, this investment will fund the creation of a new much needed east to west arterial link through the city," he said.

"This important initiative will reduce traffic congestion, improve commuter safety and get people home on time and take ore trucks off Lasalle."

Trudeau made the announcement at Tom Davies Square in Sudbury. He was joined by Sudbury MP Paul Lefebvre, Nickel Belt MP Marc Serre, Nipissing-Timiskaming MP Anthony Rota, Sudbury mayor Brian Bigger, as well as members of Sudbury city council.

"Good decisions are born from communication and collaboration," Trudeau said. "Today's discussion here in Sudbury is a great example of just that."

Trudeau said the recent federal budget highlighted $120 billion in infrastructure spending across the country over the next ten years.

"This funding will help to create jobs, better our communities and grow the middle class," he said.

Sudbury's mayor said the Maley Drive project has been a priority for Sudbury city council for more than 25 years.

"The project is critical to the economy of Greater Sudbury," he said.

"It will create 780 jobs and save residents $11.1 million annually. It's forward thinking. We'll build not only to meet current demand, but future needs. A city for our children and our grandchildren."