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Ontario’s infrastructure builders outline case for red tape reduction, aggregate approvals, and a consistent pipeline of projects.
For the first time in both associations’ histories, the Ontario Road Builders’ Association (ORBA) and the Ontario Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (OSSGA) joined forces at Queen’s Park with a clear and pressing message: Ontario’s infrastructure goals are at risk without immediate support for the foundational industries that build and supply it.
With the province advancing a $200 billion infrastructure strategy, including $30 billion for highways and $61 billion for transit, leaders from both associations met with MPPs and senior government officials in early June to stress the urgent need for sustained, predictable investment, expedited permitting processes, and harmonized construction standards to keep projects on track and the economy moving.
“Ontario’s roads, bridges, and transit systems all begin with aggregate and end with asphalt,” said Malcolm Croskery, chair of ORBA and president of Pioneer Construction. “Today’s joint advocacy is about breaking down the silos that exist between planning, permitting and procurement. We’re sending a clear message: our sectors are aligned and ready to deliver for Ontario. Now, we need government to keep pace.”
The associations asked the government to fully implement the Ontario Provincial Standards System (OPSS) across all municipalities, fast-track aggregate approvals and maintain a consistent pipeline of shovel-ready projects to avoid seasonal delays and layoffs.
“Our members are the foundation of Ontario’s growth, but we’re facing real challenges—demand is down, permitting is slow, and uncertainty is high,” said John MacKay, chair of OSSGA and vice-president at Green Infrastructure Partners. “We’re proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with ORBA today. The future of Ontario’s infrastructure depends on the collaboration between material suppliers and builders—and the government policies that enable us.”