Ford Pledges Extra $22 Billion for Ontario Infrastructure if Re-Elected
Doug Ford Pledges $22 Billion for Ontario Infrastructure, Vows Strong Response to U.S. Tariffs
Progressive Conservative Leader Doug Ford has announced an additional $22 billion in infrastructure spending for Ontario if re-elected, speaking at a news conference in Niagara Falls on Friday.
This funding comes on top of nearly $200 billion previously committed to building transit, highways, and roads—including the widening of the Queen Elizabeth Way between Burlington and St. Catharines to ease congestion.
“We’re the only party that believes in putting shovels in the ground,” Ford said.
In addition to infrastructure investments, Ford also pledged $2.5 billion to train over one million people for skilled trades jobs, aiming to provide “better jobs and bigger paycheques,” according to a PC party news release.
Ford Addresses Looming U.S. Tariffs
During his remarks, Ford also spoke about U.S. President Donald Trump’s anticipated announcement of 25 percent tariffs on Canadian goods, expected on Saturday.
“As we brace for the tariffs tomorrow, it’s never been more important to keep building, to build more, to build faster,” he said.
Ford urged the federal government to take a tough stance, advocating for a dollar-for-dollar retaliation if the tariffs are imposed.
“If [Trump] wants to put pain on Ontario families … take food off their table, we will hit him with everything we have,” Ford stated.
Local Mayors Back Ford
At the event, Ford received endorsements from the mayors of Niagara, St. Catharines, and Welland.
“He always listens and then he takes action,” Niagara Mayor Jim Diodati said. “To me, that’s exactly what we’re looking for in a leader.”
Opposition Leaders Call for a Coordinated Response
NDP Leader Marit Stiles criticized Ford’s timing, saying he “quit his job on the eve of these tariffs to try and secure himself a third term,” and called for a unified response from all provinces, territories, and the federal government.
Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner also weighed in, advocating for a “Team Ontario” strategy that prioritizes people over partisanship. Schreiner proposed creating a tariff task force, a Buy Ontario strategy, and a relief fund for businesses affected by the tariffs. He also called for diversifying trade partners, reducing interprovincial trade barriers, and introducing an investment tax credit to stimulate business growth.
Friday marked the third day of the election campaign, with Ontario voters set to head to the polls on February 27 following Ford’s snap election call.
