Feds, province announce funding for 144 water-infrastructure projects
The federal and provincial governments have announced more than $330 in combined funding to support 144 water-infrastructure projects across Ontario.
The funding will support the construction of a wide variety of projects.
In Welland, for example, a combined $4.9 million from the federal government, the province and the municipality will support the installation of approximately 1,500 metres of watermain, along with seven new hydrants on Canal Bank Road. The improvements will increase access to potable water and improve the reliability and capacity of the transmission infrastructure.
"Investment in critical infrastructure is a pillar of sustainability to a growing city like Welland, and the Dain City Secure watermain project is an important realization for our residents,” said Mayor Frank Campion. “Funding from our provincial and federal partners strengthens our infrastructure and brings greater peace of mind to our residents, which pays dividends long after the work is complete."
Havelock-Belmont-Methuen will receive $1.2 million to support the replacement of over 500 metres of watermain along George Street and the installation of four new fire hydrants. Work will also include the reconstruction of affected roadways, sidewalks, and driveways.
Projects vary in value – from $16.1 million for the construction of a new water intake pipeline, intake well, and low lift pumping station at the Bright’s Grove Water Treatment Plant in the Town of Petrolia – to just over $83,000 for upgrades to the Charlton and Dack Water Treatment Plant in that municipality.
"Today’s green infrastructure investments will bring long-lasting benefits to thousands of residents across Ontario,” said Infrastructure Minister Kinga Surma. “These projects will provide increased access to clean water, improve the reliability of our water systems, and protect health and safety."
Funding will also support the replacement of over 4,400 metres of watermain in the Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation. The work involves replacing thousands of metres of watermains along nine community roads including Onigaming Road, Anishinaabe Road, School Loop, and Ketemiikana Road. Moreover, this project will renew the fire pump in the existing water treatment plant. Once complete, this project will increase the reliability of the community’s water supply and provide residents with increased access to clean water.
The Government of Canada is investing more than $190.2 million the projects through the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The Government of Ontario is providing over $140.5 million, while local communities are contributing more than $108.5 million.