STRATEGIC HIGHWAY INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM

The Government of Canada is committed to improving the economy and the quality of life for Canadians by investing in highway infrastructure across Canada. As part of this commitment, Transport Canada announced the Strategic Highway Infrastructure Program (SHIP) in April 2001. The program has two components: a $500 million highway construction component and a $100 million national system integration component.

Under the highway component, the Government of Canada works with the provinces and territories to identify those parts of the National Highway System that — because of growing traffic and increasing trade — need immediate attention. This will result in a safer and more efficient highway system for all Canadians.

An allocation formula determines how much federal funding each province and territory receives with a minimum of $4 million per jurisdiction plus a share based on population. Provinces and territories cost-share these projects on a 50-50 basis. 

Environmental assessments that meet the requirements of the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act are undertaken before projects begin. Funding for projects is conditional on the results of these assessments and receipt of environmental approvals.

Under the second component of SHIP, the government provides $100 million nationally to fund initiatives that better integrate the transportation system. These include the deployment of Intelligent Transportation Systems across Canada, improvements to border crossings and improving transportation planning. Intelligent Transportation Systems include applications such as advanced systems for traveller information, traffic management, public transport, commercial vehicle operations, emergency response management and vehicle safety.

SHIP continues the Government of Canada’s long tradition of highway funding that started more than 80 years ago. In fact, Transport Canada will have invested more than $1.7 billion between 1993 and 2003 to improve highways across Canada. The Government of Canada also invests in transportation-related infrastructure through other programs such as the Canada Strategic Infrastructure Fund and the Border Infrastructure Fund.

SHIP Allocation ($ millions) 

For more information, please visit the Strategic Highway Infrastructure Program website.

August 2004