Public safety

FCM President Bill Karsten issued this statement following the publication of new details on the federal-provincial Safe Restart Agreement between the Government of Canada and provincial and territorial governments.

FCM President Bill Karsten issued this statement following the federal government’s announcement of an agreement with provinces and territories on a $14 billion federal “safe economic restart” plan that includes targeted funding for municipalities.

As federal, provincial and territorial governments continue negotiating agreements for the $14 billion “safe economic restart” plan, FCM’s Big City Mayors’ Caucus is calling on the federal government to guarantee adequate and dedicated emergency funding for municipalities and for strong provincial collaboration.

As cities continue responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, FCM has released a new guide to help them effectively modify urban streets to support safe commuting, commerce and exercise.

This guide offers strategies and practical guidance on rebalancing streets through three phases of COVID-19 response—from immediate to longer-term—including pedestrian and bike lanes, curbside queuing areas, and temporary patios and parklets.

As federal, provincial and territorial governments negotiate “safe economic restart” funding agreements, FCM outlines four bottom-line requirements to ensure funds urgently protect frontline services for Canadians and support a nationwide economic recovery.