(Brantford) – Brant MP, Phil McColeman, announced more than $1.3 million dollars in funding today for the City of Brantford. The money will go towards the demolition of the expropriated properties on the south side of Colborne Street.

“This grant represents an important step towards the revitalization of Brantford’s downtown core,” said McColeman. “I have long viewed the south side of Colborne as an area with tremendous potential for redevelopment.”

Brantford Mayor, Mike Hancock, says the south side of Colborne Street has been a top priority of City Council. “I am both excited and pleased that Brantford City Council’s dream of a rejuvenated downtown is that much closer with this announcement,” said Hancock.

“This investment by the Federal Government will provide a significant economic stimulus to our community, while facilitating the achievement of Council’s premier objective to make our downtown core vibrant and progressive,” Hancock said.

Through its Southern Ontario Development Program (SODP), the Federal Government has committed $1, 380,000 to the project. SODP is designed to build upon the assets and strengths of communities to create an environment where businesses can thrive, and to maximize Southern Ontario’s potential to succeed in the knowledge-based economy.

 “The Federal Government continues to make direct investment in our community, providing a boost to our economic future," said McColeman, "this paves the way for the continued development and growth of our post-secondary sector."

Mayor Hancock says he’s grateful to McColeman for his support. “I would like to thank our MP for his tireless efforts to make Brantford the best place in the world to live,” said Hancock.