Clarksburg, Ontario, April 5, 2008 - Helena Guergis, Member of Parliament for Simcoe-Grey, today announced the Government of Canada will consider the extension of municipal water and sanitary systems to Clarksburg in the Town of The Blue Mountains as a priority for up to $4,975,667 in federal infrastructure funding.
The federal contribution would be up to one-third of total eligible costs, which are estimated at $14,927,000.
"Maintaining a healthy and clean environment is directly related to the health and prosperity of communities and their residents, and is a priority for our Government," said MP Guergis. "Supporting the extension of municipal water and sanitary systems to Clarksburg is one of the ways we will deliver results for the residents of The Blue Mountains."
"We are extremely grateful to the federal government for their understanding of the urgency of the Clarksburg water and sewer project and their willingness to assist financially. The infrastructure improvements will ensure that we are able to turn on our taps and have safe drinking water," said Ellen Anderson, Mayor of the Town of the Blue Mountains. "This also provides an opportunity for the business section of Clarksburg to progress and thrive in ways otherwise not achievable without these crucial services. This is wonderful news!"
The project involves the extension of municipal water and wastewater services to the community of Clarksburg, including the construction of trunk water supply facilities, watermains, wastewater pumping stations and sanitary sewers. The improvements will ensure municipal standard water and wastewater services in the community.
Funding for this project comes from the $200 million announced in March 2007, to top up the Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund (MRIF) nation-wide. The Government of Canada is directing $64 million in funding to existing clean water applications under MRIF in Ontario.
Federal financial support for the project is conditional on the initiative meeting all applicable eligibility requirements and other program criteria, a federal review of the project, the successful completion of an environmental assessment, assurance by the municipality that the remaining project costs have been fully financed and accounted for, and the signing of a contribution agreement for the project detailing the project elements and any other federal requirements.
Val Knight
Office of Helena Guergis,
MP for Simcoe-Grey
705-435-1809
Laryssa Waler
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Tony Clement
613-957-0200
