Mission’s new sewer crossing project has been given a financial boost thanks to a recent announcement from the provincial government.
According to a press release, “New provincial support will help communities around Mission benefit from an expanded and modernized sanitary system that will also help protect the Fraser River ecosystem.”
The province is providing $11 million in support for the next phase of Mission’s Fraser River Sanitary Crossing project. The $11 million will go toward the estimated $22 million for the project with $8.25 million coming this year (2020-21) and the balance being delivered upon completion of the project.
“The environmental and community impacts of old wastewater and sewage treatment systems can create real challenges, not only for the local governments but for the people and businesses that rely on this critical infrastructure,” said Pam Alexis, MLA for Abbotsford-Mission.
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“By supporting this project, we are showing our commitment to reduce the environmental risks to the Fraser River while also bringing vital services to people in our community.”
Bob D’Eith, MLA for Maple Ridge-Mission said “This funding from our government is such a relief for the communities of Mission, Abbotsford and for all of us who benefit from and care for the Fraser River.
“Twinning and improving this 30-year old sanitary system will take a big weight off of the shoulders of the local community and residents and, in turn, will prevent possible damage to the environment.”
The funding is in addition to the previous federal and provincial funding of $6.9 million provided in 2017 under Infrastructure Canada’s Clean Water and Wastewater Fund. This newer funding will support the completion of this sewage and wastewater improvement project that benefits communities around the Fraser River.