Canada, British Columbia Launch $5 Billion Infrastructure Partnership to Boost Housing, Transit, and Healthcare

Canada and British Columbia have unveiled a major long-term infrastructure partnership valued at more than $5 billion, aimed at accelerating housing development, expanding healthcare facilities, and improving public transit across the province.

Under the newly established Build Communities Strong Fund, the federal government will contribute nearly $1.6 billion over the next decade, with British Columbia matching the investment to create a funding pool of up to $3.2 billion. The initiative is designed to reduce development charges for multi-unit residential projects by as much as 50% in priority communities, helping increase housing supply and affordability.

To strengthen healthcare infrastructure, Ottawa will provide more than $600 million over three years, matched by the provincial government for a combined investment of up to $1.2 billion. The funding will support hospital expansions, emergency room upgrades, and other critical healthcare projects throughout British Columbia.

The agreement also includes $50 million over five years for community infrastructure improvements in coastal regions, with Terrace and Prince Rupert identified as key beneficiaries. Additionally, the federal government has introduced legislation authorizing a one-time $284 million transfer to British Columbia to help remove barriers that slow construction and development.

As part of efforts to address housing shortages, the federal and provincial governments launched the Canada–British Columbia Partnership on Condo Conversion. Working through Build Canada Homes and BC Housing, the program aims to transform more than 2,200 vacant condominium units in high-growth areas into affordable housing options.

Public transportation will receive a significant boost through the Canada Public Transit Fund, which will invest $2.5 billion over 10 years in new transit infrastructure. Key projects include the Surrey-Langley SkyTrain extension and service improvements in high-demand corridors. This funding comes in addition to the previously announced $852 million for TransLink and BC Transit.

The partnership also earmarks $200 million for infrastructure projects in Tumbler Ridge, jointly funded by the federal and provincial governments. Planned developments include a new secondary school and renovations to the local health centre, with construction expected to begin this summer.

British Columbia is set to receive $326 million in 2026-27 through the Community stream of the Build Communities Strong Fund, contributing to a total of $1 billion over three years. Officials estimate the investments will support approximately 42,000 jobs annually and generate $95 billion in economic growth across Canada over the next decade.