For Immediate Release
March 25, 2024
#2024-02
Smithers, British Columbia - The Town of Smithers is pleased to announce a significant milestone in its infrastructure upgrading and development by securing over $5.5 million in funding for upgrades to the Wastewater Treatment Plant.
On Friday, March 22, the Federal government announced over $3 million dollars in funding for the Town through the Federal Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), and the Provincial government is contributing an additional $2.5 million towards the project. The Town of Smithers is contributing $2 million towards the necessary upgrades.
This substantial investment underscores the commitment to prioritize the modernization and improvement of essential infrastructure within the community. The planned upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant will include the installation of advanced filtration and ultraviolet disinfection systems, ensuring the plant operates at the highest health and efficiency standards.
Mayor Gladys Atrill expressed gratitude for the support received from both the federal and provincial governments, stating, " On behalf of us all at the Town, thank you to the Federal and Provincial Governments for supporting this project. Wastewater treatment is part of our core business, though the cost puts the required upgrades out of reach. This $5.6 million dollars plus $2 million from our own funds means we can get this done.
A big thank you to our Town staff who work hard to keep our wastewater plant running well and to the staff who worked on this successful grant application.
Thank you to Taylor Bachrach, our MP, for supporting and following up on this grant for us in Ottawa. Thank you to Municipal Affairs Minister Anne Kang and MLA Nathan Cullen for their support on the provincial front. It takes all of us working together for a project like this."
The detailed design work is currently in progress and construction on the wastewater treatment plant upgrades is expected to commence in 2025.
Media Contact:
Samantha LeBlanc, Engagement and Communications Officer
Phone: 250-877-7295
Email: communications@smithers.ca
