Up to 1,800 Canadian community and cultural facilities could see an injection of capital funding in time for the upcoming 150th anniversary of Confederation. The Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program, announced late last week, earmarks $150-million for renovation and expansion projects that can be completed by the end of 2017.

“The 150th anniversary of Confederation is a time to celebrate the places across this great country that unite and connect us,” Prime Minister Stephen Harper said, as he announced the program. “It is a fitting legacy for Canada’s sesquicentennial.”

A range of public buildings and infrastructure will be eligible, including: community and cultural centres, Royal Canadian Legions, museums, libraries, parks, recreational facilities and trails, tourism facilities, docks and cenotaphs. Provinces, territories, municipalities, Aboriginal and not-for-profit organizations can apply for the funding, which will be administered through the federal government’s regional economic development agencies.

“This investment in existing infrastructure is an opportunity to invest in Canada’s bricks and mortar heritage where the need is great,” says Natalie Bull, executive director of Heritage Canada National Trust. “Communities across the country will welcome this regeneration opportunity that will give old places new life and help make landmarks — not landfill — long after the fireworks fade.