March 6, 2009
FERNIE – The drinking water in Fernie is about to get even better, thanks to a federal-provincial investment of over $4.8 million for a new reservoir, which will improve the reliability of the drinking water system.
“This project is just one example of the commitment of both governments to strengthen the British Columbia economy by reducing red tape, creating jobs and getting shovels in the ground sooner,” said Jim Abbott, MP for Kootenay Columbia.
This project, which is estimated to create approximately 72 direct and indirect jobs, involves building a new reservoir with a water treatment system as well as a transmission main connecting the well to the reservoir. The new infrastructure is anticipated to improve overall water quality while reducing water system losses by 20 per cent.
“During these difficult economic times, the Province of British Columbia is committed to assisting communities not only to renew their infrastructure, but also to provide employment through local construction,” said East Kootenay MLA Bill Bennett. “Working together, we will emerge from these challenging times with stronger relationships and stronger communities.”
“This is a major milestone in our infrastructure renewal projects for 2009. This funding supports strategic council priorities aimed at promoting community health, improving drinking water quality and providing an alternative water source to prepare for potential impacts of climate change,” said Fernie Mayor Cindy Corrigan. “I am pleased that all three levels of government are able to work together to jointly fund these much needed water system improvements.”
This project is one of 41 projects across the province that will break ground quickly thanks to a joint federal-provincial investment of $110 million. Together with local government contributions, the total investment in local infrastructure improvements in British Columbia during this first intake exceeds $175 million. The governments of Canada and British Columbia have taken steps to get shovels in the ground and to flow money faster for targeted infrastructure projects in British Columbia communities in the 2009 and 2010 construction seasons.
For more information on the Building Canada plan, visit www.buildingcanada.gc.ca or www.bcbuildingcanadafundcommunities.ca/
Media Contact:
Krissy Côté
Executive Assistant
Jim Abbott, MP
613 995-7246
Marika Glickman
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Community Development
250 387-4089
