February 09, 2008
Port Alberni, British Columbia
The community of Port Alberni will soon have a new sewage collection system, thanks to a joint investment of $530,000 from the federal and provincial governments. The funding is provided through the Canada-B.C. Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund (CBCMRIF), which enables communities across B.C. to become healthier, greener and more sustainable places to live.
The announcement was made today by James Lunney, Member of Parliament for Nanaimo-Alberni, and Ida Chong, Minister of Community Services and Minister Responsible for Seniors' and Womens' Issues, MLA for Oak Bay - Gordon Head.
"This project will make key improvements to the Argyle Street sewage collection facility, ensuring local residents have a more reliable system," said MP Lunney, on behalf of 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 make lasting improvements to infrastructure in Port Alberni."
Approximately 19,000 residents will benefit from improvements to the Argyle Street pump station, which includes a total replacement of all pumps and controls, and installation of a backup generator. This upgrade will improve the reliability of the sewage collection system, increase pump efficiencies leading to reduced power costs, and greatly improve access and safety for workers.
"This project will make a tremendous difference to the health and sustainability of the community and it's only through our partnership funding that we're able to make this a reality," said MLA XX. "We're pleased to support Port Alberni and other smaller communities with infrastructure that supports a cleaner environment."
"The Argyle Street Pumpstation is at the end of its useful life. The timing of this announcement could not be better," said Ken McRae, Mayor of Port Alberni. "This project addresses our greatest sewer infrastructure need at this time."
Launched in June 2006, the majority of the CBCMRIF program funding supports communities of fewer than 250,000 people to minimize the costs to taxpayers of local infrastructure upgrades or new construction projects.
At least 60 per cent of the funding will assist with "green projects", and is geared towards enhancing environmental sustainability, such as water and wastewater 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 through the CBCMRIF website, at www.canadabcmrif.ca.
For additional information, contact:
Jackie StewartCommunications AdvisorWestern Economic Diversification CanadaVancouver, B.C.Tel: 604 666-1306Cell: (604) 671-9031
Marc BlackCommunications ManagerB.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.
