February 08, 2008
Burns Lake, British Columbia
A joint investment of more than $80,000 from the federal and provincial governments will help provide a cleaner, more reliable water supply for residents of Burns Lake. The funding is provided through the Canada-B.C. Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund (CBCMRIF). This fund enables communities across B.C. to become healthier, greener and more sustainable places to live.
"This investment will provide 2,700 residents with cleaner, more reliable drinking water, and minimize public health-related problems for the Burns Lake community," said the Honourable Rona Ambrose, President of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, and Minister of Western Economic Diversification. "The Government of Canada is proud to work in partnership with the Province of British Columbia to build healthy and sustainable communities."
Burns Lake will use the funding to replace aging components of its reservoir to improve the cleanliness and longevity of the town's water storage system. Currently more than half of the reservoir's protective UV and insulation layers are in need of repair. The project will reline the reservoir with new insulation and a protective coating.
"These projects will make a tremendous difference to the health and sustainability of these communities," said MacKay. "We're pleased to support Burns Lake and other smaller communities with infrastructure that makes a real difference to the quality of life of local families and residents."
"We are extremely pleased to have received government funding to undertake this much welcomed project," said Burns Lake Mayor Bernice Magee. "The resurfacing of our main water reservoir on 5th Avenue is a community enhancement project that will help preserve, protect and secure our municipal water supply for future generations."
The majority of the program funding from the CBCMRIF, which was launched in June 2006, supports communities of fewer than 250,000 people in minimizing the costs of local infrastructure upgrades or new construction projects to taxpayers.
At least 60 per cent of the funding will assist with "green projects" that are geared towards enhancing environmental sustainability, such as water and waste-water systems, public transit and environmental energy improvements. Other infrastructure projects will support local roads, cultural and recreational facilities, tourism and broadband connectivity. Funding for this project is conditionally approved pending the successful completion of an environmental assessment.
The total amount available through the CBCMRIF, with federal and provincial investments and matching local government contribution, is over $220 million. More details on the program are available online at www.canadabcmrif.ca.
For additional information, contact:
Jackie StewartCommunications AdvisorWestern Economic Diversification CanadaVancouver, B.C.Tel: 604 666-1306Cell: 604 671-9031
Marc BlackB.C. Ministry of Community ServicesVictoria, B.C.Tel: (250) 356-6334
WD Toll-Free Number:1 888 338-WEST (9378)
Web Site: WD is online at www.wd-deo.gc.ca.
