Preparing Southwestern Ontario for the Future
The Long-Term Report on the Economy identifies demographic, economic and employment trends in Ontario that will present future challenges and opportunities. In response, Ontario is building inclusive growth provincewide that will create prosperity for years to come by developing a highly skilled workforce, making health care more accessible, building modern infrastructure and supporting business innovation and growth.
Regional economic growth is affected by many factors, including natural resources, the mix of business and industry, and demographics. According to the report, by 2040 Southwestern Ontario's population is projected to grow by 10.5 per cent.
Ontario is committed to making long-term investments in services and infrastructure to address the challenges and improve the economic conditions of Southwestern Ontario, while preparing for the jobs and economy of tomorrow. According to a forthcoming study by the Centre for Spatial Economics, every dollar invested in infrastructure results in an increase of nearly $6 in real GDP over the long-term.
Education and Skills Development
By supporting a highly educated labour force, Ontario is preparing for tomorrow's economic opportunities.
- Building the new Centre for Advanced Research and Innovation in Biotechnology in London to provide biotechnology, chemistry and environmental technology programs to students through a partnership with the Government of Canada and Fanshawe College.
- Supporting St. Clair College through the Youth Job Connection program, which provides employment opportunities, training, mentorship and work placements to Windsor youth facing multiple barriers.
- Expanding Tecumseh Vista Academy, adding new classrooms for more than 1,700 kindergarten to grade 12 students.
Transportation
By investing in transportation infrastructure, Ontario is managing congestion, minimizing greenhouse gases and strengthening community connections.
- Developing a new 17-kilometre, multiuse cycling and pedestrian trail across Windsor, the first trail in Ontario that has been incorporated into a major provincial highway project.
- Reconstructing Wallaceburg's McNaughton Avenue and Murray Street through the Connecting Links program, which helps municipalities repair their roadways and bridges.
Health Care
By providing faster access to care and increasing capacity, Ontario is putting patients first.
- Providing more nursing, personal support and rehabilitation services for home and community care in Chatham, Sarnia, Windsor and the surrounding areas.
- Investing in a new long-term care home in Aylmer, with up to 100 spaces to provide residents with more spacious rooms and specialized rehabilitation services.
- Renovating St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital to enhance patient services like surgeries, mental health support and emergency care.