January 21, 2005 Margaretsville, Nova Scotia A number of Annapolis County residents will soon enjoy safer drinking water. Improvements to the Margaretsville water treatment facility and reservoir and upgrades to the Cornwallis Park water metering program have been approved under the Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program. The three projects have a total value of $617,970. These projects include the design and installation of a new roof on the Margaretsville reservoir and a new liner and cover for the Margaretsville water treatment facility. These two projects will provide improved and safer water for 160 households. The third project involves the installation of meters on Cornwallis Park's reservoir in order to increase water service reliability and reduce water losses. The funding was announced today by the Government of Canada and the Province of Nova Scotia, in partnership with the Municipality of Annapolis County. "The real value of these investments goes far beyond their dollar amount," said Robert G. Thibault, Member of Parliament for West Nova, on behalf of the Honourable Joseph McGuire, Minister of Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. "By investing in green projects such as these, the Government of Canada is helping to improve the quality of life through safe drinking water and reliable water systems." Designed to invest in the infrastructure needs of Nova Scotia communities, the program supports long term economic growth, community infrastructure improvements and environmental enhancements. "The Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program is one of the ways we are investing in green projects like these water upgrades, designed to improve our environment and provide safe, high quality water systems," said Chris d'Entremont, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, on behalf of Barry Barnet, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. "Building strong communities and improving quality of life is a priority for our government." Mr. Thibault and Mr. d'Entremont announced joint federal- provincial investment of $205,990. The Municipality of Annapolis County will fund the balance of these projects upon final acceptance of its offer. "These projects will have some significant benefits for the health of our communities," said Peter Newton, Warden of the Municipality of Annapolis County. "They will make a real impact on the quality of life of our citizens." To date, more than $194 million has been invested in 133 projects through the program, and additional announcements are expected as projects undergo environmental assessment and final approval. The $195 million, six-year Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program is administered by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation is a member of the management committee. The Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities is represented on the Program's management committee. - 30 - For further information contact: Valérie Poulin Director of Communications Office of the Honourable Joseph McGuire Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency 613-941-7241 David Harrigan Media Relations Officer Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency 902-426-4238 Deborah Bayer Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Secretariat 902-424-0112 Peter Newton Warden, Municipality of the County of Annapolis 902-532-2331
