Infrastructure Improvements Announced for Annapolis Royal

SERVICE N.S./MUNICIPAL RELATIONS--Infrastructure Improvements Announced for Annapolis Royal

Residents in Annapolis Royal will soon see improvements to their sewage management system with a project aimed at replacing the sewage lagoon's aeration equipment. The project will be funded through the Canada/Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program.

Joint funding, in the amount of $58,999, was announced today as one of 22 project approvals totalling more than $21.8 million by Robert G. Thibault, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, and Frank Chipman, MLA for Annapolis, on behalf of Angus MacIsaac, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations.

"Our government signed on to the Canada/Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program with the intention of helping Nova Scotians -- regardless of whether they're in a rural community or a large municipality -- to enjoy clean water, a healthy environment and an opportunity to prosper here at home," said Mr. Chipman.

Green municipal infrastructure to ensure effective wastewater management and safe drinking water is the first priority under the program. The majority of the federal and provincial funding announced in Year One will be directed to green projects, like the Annapolis Royal Aeration Equipment Replacement Project.

"A clean, healthy environment is crucial to building strong communities and improving our quality of life," said Mr. Thibault. "Through the Canada/Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program, the Government of Canada is investing in green projects that will provide safe, higher quality drinking water, and improve our environment."

The $88,498 replacement of the sewage lagoon's aeration equipment will improve wastewater management and efficiency of the sewage treatment facility, while reducing maintenance costs for the town. The federal and provincial funding under the program is subject to the formal acceptance of the Town of Annapolis Royal, which will fund the balance of the project.

"This replacement will definitely improve the facility's treatment process and the level of service provided to our community," said Deputy Mayor Trish Fry. "We are delighted to see the three levels of government come together in the spirit of cooperation for this project."

This is the first in a series of approval announcements for projects nominated by municipalities under the program. Additional announcements are expected as projects undergo environmental assessment and final approval.

The $195-million, six-year Canada/Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program is administered by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. The Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities is represented on the program's management committee.

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