Officials at the Port of Hamilton say a new project announced on Friday could play a big role in the future economic growth of Hamilton and Niagara. The project aims to improve the shipping of goods to help attract more businesses to the region.

Canada’s Minister of Transport, Pablo Rodriguez was at the Port of Hamilton to announce $51 million in plans to improve trade all the across the country.

“The projects we’re here to announce today well they drive innovation they help to create a better future for all Canadians,” Rodriguez said.

Earlier this month the federal and provincial governments announced plans for a Japanese company to open a new $1.6-billion car battery technology plant in Port Colborne.

In January, the City of Hamilton announced plans for the country’s largest sugar refinery.

Now, the federal government says the port authority for Hamilton and Oshawa will get $256,000 for a new digital system to monitor truck traffic.

“This investment will allow the port authority to upgrade their digital infrastructure with solutions like license plate recognition cameras to monitor vehicle traffic,” Rodriguez said.

The Port of Hamilton is a bulk port that handles billions of dollars worth of goods every year like agricultural products from the west or salt and asphalt.

Officials say more efficient movement of goods should help make the region more attractive for investment.

They hope this is going to create more economic opportunities and jobs.