Canadian cities team up on military infrastructure planning

Canadian municipalities are coordinating with the military to speed up infrastructure projects serving both civilian and defence needs. The Federation of Canadian Municipalities announced a Defence Task Force Friday at its annual conference, aiming to identify and accelerate dual-use projects across the country.

FCM President Rebecca Bligh said bases are expanding across Canada amid shifting geopolitics, putting pressure on municipal systems. "Municipalities are the order of government that enable and supports Canada's sovereignty. We build and maintain roads, airports, water systems, housing and transportation networks."

The task force will work to improve coordination between Canadian Forces bases and neighbouring municipalities, with hopes to move projects forward faster and expand housing and amenities for military families.

Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack highlighted the city's strategic role. "Edmonton is the closest major metropolitan area to key strategic locations in the Arctic and the North. Our city's infrastructure is already serving a dual purpose—this task force matters because it shines a light on the work it takes for cities like ours to maintain and renew the systems that support both civilian life and national defence."

The initiative ties into the federal government's plan to invest $81 billion in the Department of National Defence over five years. Task Force co-chair Will Cole-Hamilton said practical examples include bike paths connecting bases to residential areas—small projects that make a difference for military families settling into new communities.