Photo supplied by the office of MPP Billy Denault
The Ontario government says it is making permanent a $15-million annual fund to help northern municipalities maintain and improve infrastructure that supports resource development and local economic growth.
The province announced ongoing funding for the Northern Ontario Resource Development Support (NORDS) Fund, which helps municipalities pay for projects such as roads and bridges affected by industries including forestry, mining and agriculture.
As part of the program, the Township of South Algonquin received $94,722 during the 2025-26 fiscal year to help reconstruct Hay Creek Road.
Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke MPP Billy Denault said the funding will help ensure communities have the infrastructure needed to support residents, businesses and resource industries.
The NORDS Fund was introduced in 2021 and has provided $75 million for municipal infrastructure projects across northern Ontario. The province says all 144 municipalities eligible under the Places to Grow Act can apply for future funding through Transfer Payment Ontario later this summer.
Northern Economic Development and Growth Minister George Pirie said making the fund permanent will allow municipalities to better plan infrastructure investments while supporting sustainable resource development.
Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy said the annual investment is part of the province’s broader economic strategy to strengthen northern communities and support long-term growth.
