East Hants Communities to Enjoy Improved Water Services
SERVICE N.S./MUNICIPAL RELATIONS--East Hants Communities to Enjoy Improved Water Services
The communities of Lantz and Elmsdale will soon enjoy improved and more reliable water services due to a $1.8-million project funded through the Canada/Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program.
Robert Thibault, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf Gerry Byrne, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, and Angus MacIsaac, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations, announced the federal-provincial funding of $1,219,046 today, Sept. 3. The Municipality of East Hants will fund the $609,525 balance upon formal acceptance of the agreement.
"The government of Canada is working with Nova Scotians to build strong communities and improve our quality of life," said Mr. Thibault. "Through the Canada/Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program we are investing in green projects like the one announced today for East Hants, that will improve our environment and provide safe, higher-quality water systems for all citizens."
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 to date has been directed to green projects.
"Residents of Lantz and Elmsdale will notice an immediate change for the better once this project is completed," Mr. MacIsaac said. "People living here can look forward to improved water flow to their homes, which will allow for future development and better fire protection."
This water tower project allows for the design and construction of a 4.4-million-litre (960,000-imperial-gallon) tower in the East Hants Business Park and the infrastructure required to connect it to the existing water distribution system. Part of a plan for improving the water supply system, the new tower will enhance the service reliability of the current water and fire protection system. It will also encourage further commercial and industrial development in the area by making future service extensions possible.
"This investment will have a significant impact on the well-being of our community and will ensure that our residents receive a more reliable supply and quality of water," said Lloyd Matheson, warden of the Municipality of the District of East Hants. "I am delighted to make this announcement today with our provincial and federal partners."
This is one of a series of approval announcements for projects under the program. To date, 63 projects have been approved during the first round of the program, representing an investment of more than $96 million. 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. Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation is a member of the management committee. The Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities is represented on the program's management committee.