The Canadian military in Alberta is getting $40 million to modernize its facilities, Defence Minister Peter MacKay said Sunday.

Speaking in Edmonton, he said the projects will create more than 200 jobs for Albertans.

"This is part of a broader story that the government of Canada is approaching these difficult economic times very seriously. We're pursuing projects across the country in civilian quarters, creating economic benefits and jobs from coast to coast to coast," MacKay said.

"Along with our investments in new equipment for the Canadian Forces, these infrastructure initiatives will very much help Canadian companies continue to establish solid foundations."

MacKay said CFB Edmonton will get $21 million for new housing and a new training site to be built over the next two years.

CFB Wainwright will see its water-processing plant upgraded in the summer of 2009. And CFB Cold Lake will get funding to replace aging infrastructure.

"This is part of budgeted money that will begin, of course, when the budget passes. This is infrastructure spending that is specific to the Canadian Forces, specific to projects that have been identified for some time but ... this is new money," he said.

"This is money allotted to National Defence to address infrastructure needs on bases just as we have money allotted for equipment."

MacKay said the government has about $400 million in military upgrades planned for bases across the country.

He is expected to make a similar announcement in Winnipeg later Sunday.