This morning at Brampton City Hall, Premier Doug Ford and Minister Kinga Surma, joined by other members of cabinet including Associate Minister Graham McGregor, Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria, and Associate Minister Charmaine Williams, announced a commitment of $29.7 million towards transformative infrastructure in Brampton that will allow for 12,900 new homes to be built. The funding is directed towards the Riverwalk project, a massive infrastructure and urban design project that includes downtown flood mitigation. This monumental announcement marks not only a pivotal development for our community but also a major advocacy win for the Brampton Board of Trade.
What does this mean?
The Brampton Board of Trade has championed the Riverwalk project, emphasizing its critical importance in our city’s growth and resilience to extreme weather events. The Riverwalk project sees major construction that will reduce flood risks from Etobicoke Creek. It will also allow for Downtown Brampton to realize its potential by allowing for greater density.
Downtown Brampton is in the Etobicoke Creek floodplain, where the province’s Special Policy Area (SPA) designation limits the type and extent of development permitted, ultimately limiting density. This funding announcement now paves the way for lifting the SPA in downtown Brampton. With the SPA eventually lifted, intensification becomes possible, which can also bring major transit projects online. As an example, the Canada Public Transit Fund announced by the federal government provides funding for transit projects on the condition that housing supply is built around said projects.
In addition to housing and transit, Riverwalk also envisions new business opportunities and increased tourism will breathe new life into Brampton’s economy. It also sees expanded parks and trails that will foster active lifestyles and represents greater environmental stewardship.
Looking Forward
This $29.7 million investment, part of the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund, which was significantly expanded in the 2024 Ontario Budget, is a powerful testament to the impact of advocacy and collaboration. The Brampton Board of Trade is grateful for the tireless work of the elected officials who played a key role in bringing this vital project to fruition. We extend our deepest thanks to Premier Ford, Minister Surma, Associate Minister Graham McGregor, Mayor Brown, councilors and staff, and all stakeholders involved for their unwavering support and commitment to Brampton’s future.
As Brampton continues to evolve, the Riverwalk project will stand as a cornerstone of our city’s transformation, unlocking new possibilities and strengthening our community. Stay tuned for further updates as we progress towards a brighter, more connected Brampton.
To stay up to date on all of the Brampton Board of Trade’s advocacy priorities, please reach out to vsingh@bramptonbot.com. Riverwalk, among other infrastructure priorities, will be discussed at our upcoming Brampton in Motion Symposium on September 26th. Make sure you register to be part of the conversation!
