SHANNONVILLE — The Ontario government has launched a new $10 million Pothole Prevention and Repair Program, providing targeted support to small municipalities that often struggle with the financial and operational demands of road maintenance.
The program allows municipalities with populations under 10,000 to apply for up to $38,000 for critical pothole prevention and repair projects. The initiative is part of the province’s broader strategy to “protect Ontario” by investing in local infrastructure and improving road safety.
Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria said the funding will help families avoid costly vehicle damage while supporting safer travel and uninterrupted movement of goods.
“This funding will help small municipalities repair potholes before they cause costly vehicle damage, helping families to travel safely and businesses to keep goods moving,” Sarkaria said.
He added that the new program complements Ontario’s $30 billion, 10-year plan to build and repair highways, bridges and major roads.
We’re protecting Ontario’s roads and helping municipalities keep drivers safe with the our new $10 million Pothole Prevention and Repair Program.
This new funding will help smaller municipalities:
✅ Repair potholes before they cause costly vehicle damage
✅ Keep families safe… pic.twitter.com/ZDSwQo6Yae— Prabmeet Sarkaria (@PrabSarkaria) November 10, 2025
Supporting Rural and Northern Communities
Small and rural municipalities — many of which maintain long stretches of road with limited tax bases — are expected to benefit significantly.
Hastings–Lennox and Addington MPP Ric Bresee said the program offers much-needed relief:
“By investing in local transportation infrastructure, we’re helping communities protect and extend the life of their roads while keeping drivers safe and supporting economic growth.”
Applications for funding are open until December 12, 2025.
Sector Leaders Welcome the Investment
A range of municipal, construction and auto-safety organizations praised the initiative:
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Minister of Rural Affairs Lisa Thompson noted the program’s importance for maintaining safe country roads.
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Clearway Construction president Anthony Di Battista said proactive repairs will reduce long-term costs and improve safety.
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NOMA, FONOM, and the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus all highlighted the significant impact for northern and eastern municipalities, where road networks are vast and maintenance challenges are ongoing.
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CAA South Central Ontario welcomed the investment as a meaningful step toward improving road conditions for drivers across the province.
Nearly 60% of Municipalities Eligible
According to Statistics Canada census data, 263 of Ontario’s 444 municipalities — nearly 60% — qualify for the new program.
The province says the program was developed following consultation commitments made under the Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act, 2024.
Ontario continues to position transportation infrastructure as a key pillar of its economic growth strategy, emphasizing road safety, job creation and long-term asset protection.
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