OTTAWA — Ontario has reached a so-called “new deal” with the City of Ottawa that sees the province take over certain major costs.

The province says it will take over ownership of Highway 174, support the repairs of major connecting roads and open a new police station downtown.

Premier Doug Ford says the deal reflects the city’s unique position as the country’s capital and eastern Ontario’s economic engine.

The province says it will give the city $546 million to help its economic recovery and revitalization. 

Mayor Mark Sutcliffe says the deal relieves significant budget pressures and will allow the city to invest more in services.

Last fall, Ford announced a deal with the City of Toronto that saw the province take over ownership and operational costs of two highways as the city faced a $1.5-billion shortfall for 2024.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 28, 2024. 

The Canadian Press