To get the exact figure, you will have to speak to the federal government. However, it is our understanding, from our analysis of the September stimulus report, updates that Minister Baird has sent to our members, and discussions we've had with officials, that more than 3,000 municipal stimulus projects have been approved.
I know you were asking me about breaking ground. I think these terms are very important. When we say “approved”, it means that municipalities now have authorization to finish any design work necessary, tender the project, and begin construction. Of the 3,000, as of last month about 1,000 of those projects are finalizing design work, going to tender, or already under construction. Those are the numbers we're able to interpret.
Just half an hour ago I got the latest update that since the beginning of the year, 5,000 projects worth $8 billion have been approved. That includes the infrastructure stimulus fund and the various components of the Building Canada fund. That's more than just the pure stimulus fund. It doesn't include the recreation fund or any of the other non-municipal-related funds.