Sarnia-Lambton MPP Bob Bailey says he's optimistic for what 2024 will bring as he hopes to see new investments in the area and more housing projects.
Bailey said with the electric vehicle industry expanding in Canada, he would like to see the riding considered for possible development.
"There's lots of potential for investment in our community by companies to support this sector," he said. "I know there's a number of people who toured the community, industry leaders... announcements still to come on that."
There are also some ongoing projects Bailey would like to see progress on, such as the expansion of Highway 40.
Proposed improvements to Hwy. 40 were noted in an online Public Information Centre held from November 27 to December 10.
"That's a project I want to see us keep the pressure on," Bailey said.
The local MPP is also looking forward to progress being made at the withdrawal management facility at Bluewater Health. The province announced $12 million in funding last year to support the 24-bed facility.
"I'd also like to see more shovels in the ground on residential construction, including single-family homes and multi-residential units. I know there's a number of those either under discussion or in progress right now," he said.
Aside from the need for more housing, Bailey suspects high interest rates will continue to pose a challenge in the year to come.
"We need to see the Bank of Canada stabilize or reduce interest rates," Bailey said. "If we don't see that, then the federal and provincial governments are really going to have to put their heads together on how we move forward and get more affordable housing built, so that young people who want to get started in a home can do that."
Looking back at this past year, Bailey highlighted the increase in provincial funding toward the homeless prevention program in the County of Lambton.
Bailey said he was also pleased to see the near completion of Cestar Dock and the opening of the Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario location in downtown Sarnia.
