Navigating the golden age of infrastructure in Canada: Legal experts lead the way

For example, public discussion on infrastructure now includes much-needed development in internet broadband for isolated communities, the transition to a “clean, green” economy, and affordable housing. 

Creating more affordable housing isn’t just about building more homes or rental units. Larger cities require density, which means schools, sewage systems, hospitals, and public transit.

“This vision of transit-oriented communities effectively connecting everywhere is challenging, but the priorities of housing and transit are important,” says Jason Annibale at McMillan LLP.

Legal challenges in emerging infrastructure models in Canada

As infrastructure projects become more complex and pressing, new tools are emerging to get projects built faster.

Brian Kelsall at Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP says that while the Canadian Infrastructure Bank started slowly, it has since made progress. He says the CIB has “been more and more successful” in identifying needs, solving problems, and taking on risk while broadening the sectors it will support.