Over 1.2 million dollars is flowing from Ottawa to help the Canadian Wood Council support a couple hundred construction projects, create jobs and generate millions in wood sales.

MP Anthony Rota announced 1.2 million dollars from FedNor for the Ontario Wood WORKS! program, over a three year period.

He says the funds will enable the Canadian Wood Council to promote wood as a viable construction option.

“This money will enable the Canadian Wood Council to promote the use of wood. If you don’t have someone promoting it so people understand how they can use wood sometimes these projects don’t happen,” Rota says.

Marianne Berube is executive director of the Canadian Wood Council in Ontario.

She says until the organization came along no one was touting the benefits of wood construction.

“There’s been a lot of exciting things happen lately including code changes and new building products. So we need to educate. We do a lot of workshops and seminars to existing practitioners, architects and engineers,” Berube says.

Berube says wood is being looked at for the new condominium project at the Kenroc site.

The money will tout wood as a best value and ideal construction choice.

Rota made the announcement at the health unit building on Oak Street which was built with wood.

Meantime, Over $31,000 will also be used to hire a youth intern.

(photo by station staff)

Filed under: Anthony Rota, Canadian Wood Council, FedNor