The greenlight for another 303 new projects totalling more than $16.6 million of provincial investment under the Municipal Economic Enhancement Program (MEEP) 2020 has been given by the province.

This brings the latest amount of approved projects to 497 representing a total investment so far of $38 million by the Government of Saskatchewan, as it extends the deadline to July 31 from July 17 for municipalities to submit potential projects under the program.

“Our government recognizes some municipalities may need just a little more time to complete their MEEP applications during these summer months and we want to ensure they have ample opportunity to take advantage of this program,” Government Relations Minister Lori Carr said in a release issued Wednesday morning. “Provincial investments in local projects and initiatives will help create jobs in communities during this recent unprecedented period, strengthen municipal assets and improve quality of life.”

The $150 million MEEP 2020 was announced in May and is a key component of the Government of Saskatchewan’s $7.5 billion, two-year capital plan to build a strong province and stimulate its economic recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

All MEEP 2020 funding must be used by municipalities by March 31, 2022.