Thunder Bay, Ontario, September 4, 2008 - Member of Parliament Joe Comuzzi, on behalf of the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister responsible for infrastructure programming in Ontario, today announced the Government of Canada will cons sider the upgrades to the sewer system in the Town of Rainy River as a priority for up to $137,625 in federal infrastructure funding.
The federal contribution would be up to one-third of total eligible costs, which are estimated at $412,875.
"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 Comuzzi. "We are delivering on our commitment to help build strong, sustainable communities which offer a high quality of life for residents."
"We appreciate the federal government's commitment to improve our sewer system," said Debbie Ewald, Mayor of the Town of Rainy River. "This project will have a positive impact on our Town, since residents will greatly benefit from a cleaner environment."
The project includes the replacement of 530 metres of sanitary sewer line on Atwood Avenue. The upgrades w ill improve the Town's wastewater management system.
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 federa l 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 detai ling the project elements and any other federal requirements.
Laryssa Waler
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Tony Clement
613-957-0200
