Local governments in the East Kootenay are receiving $1,031,450 in federal-provincial investments in critical clean water and wastewater infrastructure, announced Kootenay East MLA Bill Bennett today on behalf of B.C. Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Peter Fassbender.

The Clean Water and Wastewater Fund is providing approximately $310 million to 144 projects throughout the province.

Funding recipients for the East Kootenay include:

* $207,500 for a water and wastewater infrastructure network study in the District of Sparwood;

* $417,330 for Lake Baptiste Dam Upgrade Project (Regional District of East Kootenay; Electoral Area G);

* $232,400 for Abruzzi Heights Infrastructure Replacement Design in the District of Elkford;

* $174,220 for Moyie Watermain Replacement Project (RDEK Electoral Area C).

Lake Baptiste, located east of Edgewater, is that community’s water supply.

The Clean Water and Wastewater Fund enables crucial investments in local government infrastructure, specifically supporting long-term benefits in rehabilitating drinking water, wastewater and stormwater systems, as well as planning and designing future facilities and upgrades to existing wastewater systems.

This funding will help communities ensure that residents enjoy safe and reliable access to drinking water and improved environmental protections, and will assist local governments in meeting provincial and federal regulations. Clean water and wastewater management is a core service that communities depend on to grow and help ensure sustainability principles are met, while improving community vibrancy, resiliency and attractiveness.

“The joint federal and provincial investment of $1,031,450 is a major investment in our communities. The upgrades to our water systems mean that our community will have improved access to environmentally friendly, safe and reliable drinking water,” said Bennett.

“Safe and reliable drinking water and wastewater systems are essential infrastructure for all communities in our province. The Clean Water and Wastewater Fund enables local governments to make the critical investments in essential services their citizens rely upon. This program is another successful example of our government working together with our federal and municipal partners to best serve British Columbians,” stated Fassbender in a press release.

Approved projects are cost shared 50% by the Government of Canada, 33% by the Province of British Columbia, and the remaining 17% from the local government.

Lead image: Lake Baptiste. RDEK photo

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