Two communities on Vancouver Island will see significant upgrades to their water infrastructure thanks to a combined investment of more than $5.25 million from federal, provincial, and municipal partners. These projects aim to strengthen wastewater treatment, improve stormwater management, and enhance community resilience against environmental challenges.
In North Cowichan, the Crofton Sewage Treatment Plant will be modernized with two new clarifiers and a sludge thickening system. These improvements will expand the plant’s capacity, ensure continued compliance with environmental standards, and maintain clean, safe water treatment for the community. The upgrades will also safeguard public health and protect the local environment as the municipality grows.
Meanwhile, the Village of Sayward will implement critical drainage and stormwater upgrades to reduce flood risks for homes and improve water quality. The project will include new stormwater pipes, biofilters to minimize pollution runoff, and other sustainable water management measures. These changes will not only lower the risk of flooding but also strengthen the community’s ability to withstand extreme weather while protecting residents, ecosystems, and local wildlife.
Government representatives and local leaders emphasized the importance of these projects for both community health and long-term environmental sustainability. Federal and provincial officials highlighted the role of such initiatives in building climate resilience and protecting ecosystems, while municipal leaders underscored the transformative impact of the investments, particularly for smaller communities like Sayward.
The federal government is contributing more than $2.1 million, the Province of British Columbia over $1.7 million, and municipal governments nearly $1.4 million toward the projects through the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. This funding stream supports greener communities by promoting climate preparedness, reducing emissions, and advancing sustainable technologies. Including these latest announcements, more than 160 projects in British Columbia have received support under the program, representing a major joint commitment to sustainable development and community resilience.
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