Infrastructure: A Key Post-Election Priority

(Toronto – April 8, 2025) – The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) is calling for decisive action to address the province’s urgent infrastructure needs. Strategic infrastructure investments are vital to Ontario’s growth, resilience and competitive advantage, particularly amidst ongoing U.S. tariff and trade threats.  

As part of its ongoing commitment to infrastructure advocacy, the OCC’s Infrastructure Policy Council (IPC) welcomes Doug DeRabbie, Director of Government and Stakeholder Relations at the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies – Ontario (ACEC-Ontario), as its new co-chair. 

“Ontario—and Canada—must get better at getting big things built and big things done,” said Daniel Tisch, President and CEO of the OCC. “Doug DeRabbie’s experience in both the public and private sectors will be invaluable to our members in working with governments to define and develop the infrastructure Ontario needs for sustainable growth.” 

“The Ontario Chamber’s Infrastructure Policy Council has consistently advocated for public and private investment in critical infrastructure,” said DeRabbie. “I look forward to collaborating with the Council to champion strategic action that will bolster Ontario’s economy, create jobs, and position the province for sustainable success.” 

The OCC urges the government to commit to key infrastructure priorities, including: 

• Enhancing supply chain resilience and modernizing procurement: Businesses rely on strong supply chains for economic stability and growth. The government must implement both immediate relief measures and long-term infrastructure investments. Modernizing procurement will also enhance interprovincial trade, improve resilience, and maximize value for businesses and Ontarians. 

• Expanding broadband and digital infrastructure: Businesses, education, and public services depend on reliable internet. The Broadband Subcommittee is focused on accelerating connectivity improvements and advancing future-ready investments. 

• Future-proofing infrastructure and driving climate resilience: Investing in sustainable, climate-resilient infrastructure will help Ontario manage extreme weather, support economic stability, and ensure public assets remain in a state of good repair. 

The IPC will continue to guide the OCC’s advocacy efforts to ensure Ontario invests in key areas such as sustainability, housing, transit, supply chains, and broadband to drive economic growth and resilience.
 

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About the Ontario Chamber of Commerce
The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) is the indispensable partner of business and Canada’s largest, most influential provincial chamber. It is an independent, non-profit advocacy and member services organization representing a diverse network of 60,000 members. The OCC convenes, mobilizes and empowers business and local chambers in pursuit of its purpose: to bring inclusive and sustainable prosperity to Ontario’s businesses, workers, and communities. 

For more information, please contact:
Andrea Carmona
Senior Manager of Public Affairs
Ontario Chamber of Commerce
andreacarmona@occ.ca | Mobile: (647) 234-0255