$94 million earmarked for Pearson cargo upgrades

The federal government is putting up $94 million to help build two new cargo facilities at Toronto Pearson International Airport.

The project will improve cargo capacity by building two new facilities: the South Cargo Transfer Development Facility (YYZ South) and the North Cargo Apron Development (YYZ North). YYZ South will increase capacity for incoming cargo, and YYZ North will build additional infrastructure for more cargo aircraft parking spaces, which will also increase cargo capacity.

“It’s no secret that the last few years have been difficult on supply chains here in Canada and across the world. Toronto Pearson Airport is a key player in Canada’s transportation supply chain, and today’s funding of nearly $94 million is great news for the airport’s cargo-handling capabilities, for our supply chains, and for Canadians,” said transport minister Omar Alghabra.

The funding comes under the National Trade Corridors Fund, which is a competitive, merit-based program designed to help infrastructure owners and users invest in the critical transportation assets that support economic activity in Canada. A total of $4.6 billion over 11 years (2017-2028) has been allocated to the program.

“The substantial funding from National Trade Corridors Fund for our cargo development project will enhance our position as a vital gateway for global and domestic cargo operators,” said Deborah Flint, president and CEO of the Greater Toronto Airports Authority.

“With improved capacity and infrastructure, we will facilitate faster and more efficient goods transfer, benefiting Canadian businesses and consumers. Toronto Pearson Airport is a competitive cargo hub, that is critical to the serving the population and the growing manufacturing sector in the country.”

There is no specified timeline for the development of the two facilities.