To ensure that Canadian and their families do not lack access to modern and reliable water services able to meet their needs, the governments of Canada and Alberta have both committed to investing in local infrastructure.
According to Infrastructure Canada, together with Marcel D. Auger, Reeve of the Municipal District of Opportunity, the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, and Brian Mason, Alberta Minister of Transportation, recently announced the a joint federal-provincial-municipal funding of an estimated CAD$7.5 million (US$5.87 million) for the construction of a new water treatment plant for the Hamlet of Sandy Lake.
“The Government of Canada is investing in local infrastructure projects to help protect public health and lay a strong foundation for economic growth, middle-class job creation and a sustainable future,” Mr Sohi said. “I am pleased to support the construction of this crucial water treatment plant in the Hamlet of Sandy Lake, which will restore the community’s ability to treat water locally and contribute to a higher quality of life for residents.”
The new facility, complete with more storage space and modern equipment, will remove the need to bring drinking water in from Wabasca-Desmarais, a neighbouring community, as well as take the place of the current plant, which has also ceased operations.
Upon completion, the new plant will serve a greater number of businesses and households in the Hamlet of Sandy Lake, offering residents access to a reliable supply of high-quality drinking water as well as driving economic growth.
“Reliable access to clean drinking water and water treatment systems is essential for all Albertans,” Mr Mason added. “The Government of Alberta is pleased to provide this Alberta Municipal Water/Wastewater Partnership grant to the Municipal District of Opportunity to support the new Sandy Lake water treatment plant. This infrastructure spending is an investment in helping to put people back to work while providing enhanced access to clean drinking water to make life better for Albertans.”
“As our communities within the Municipal District of Opportunity continue to grow and develop, so does the infrastructure in these communities for essential services,” Mr Auger concluded. “We are excited to be a part of this joint project with both the federal and provincial governments to bring the much-needed construction of a new water treatment plant to the community of Sandy Lake.”
Source: Infrastructure Canada
