There is a broad consensus that Canada’s public infrastructure has deteriorated over the last few decades. Issues with traffic congestion, inadequate public transportation, sewer collapse and sinkholes regularly make media headlines and have gone from being inconvenient to a serious impediment to economic activity. The Broadbent Institute is encouraging all levels of governments across the country to focus on developing the country’s infrastructure.
This report examines the economic benefits of three possible public infrastructure spending plans in British Columbia. The three plans involve 5-year cumulative spending commitments by the provincial government of $5, $7 and $10 billion respectively. The benefits from a public infrastructure program arise from the direct program spending but then extend beyond this direct impact. Public capital promotes long-term economic growth and productivity as productive public infrastructure reduces costs for private businesses providing a compelling case for public funding of this capital.
‘The Economic Benefits of Public Infrastructure Spending in British Columbia’ is licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0
