Burk's Falls, Ontario, July 3, 2008 - The Honourable Tony Clement, Member of Parliament for Parry Sound-Muskoka and Minister responsible for infrastructure programming in Ontario, today announced the Government of Canada will consider the improvements to the water distribution system in the Village of Burk's Falls as a priority for up to $275,880 in federal infrastructure funding.
The federal contribution would be up to one-third of total eligible costs, which are estimated at $827,641.
"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 Minister Clement. "We are delivering on our commitment to help build strong, sustainable communities which offer a high quality of life for residents."
"Thanks to the federal government, we will be able to proceed with these necessary system upgrades," said Cathy Still, Reeve of the Village of Burk's Falls. "These improvements will provide better water services, increase firefighting capabilities and enhance resident's safety."
The project involves installing a new water line from the municipal well to the standpipe, constructing a building to house a new booster pump to increase pressure to all fire hydrants in the village, and replacing older lines to handle increased water pressure. The upgrades will provide residents and businesses with a more stable water supply.
Funding for this project comes from the $200 million, announced in March 2007, to top up the Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund (MRIF) nationwide. The Government of Canada is directing $64 million in funding to existing clean water applications under the 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.
For more information, visit www.infrastructure.gc.ca.
Laryssa Waler
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Tony Clement
613-957-0200
