Infrastructure Improvements for Westville, Pictou County

SERVICE N.S./MUNICIPAL RELATIONS--Infrastructure Improvements for Westville, Pictou County

Westville's water system will receive major improvements with upgrades funded through the Canada/Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program.

Joint funding in the amount of $214,344 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 Jim DeWolfe, MLA for Pictou East, on behalf of Angus MacIsaac, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations.

"Supplying safe and reliable water service to Nova Scotia communities is one of the main objectives of the Canada/Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program," said Mr.DeWolfe. "It is an essential service and needed investment in our future."

Green municipal infrastructure that ensures effective wastewater management and safe drinking water is the first priority under the program. All of the federal and provincial funding announced in year one will be directed to green projects, like the Main Street water and sewer upgrade.

"The Canada/Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program is helping maintain strong, healthy communities," said Mr. Thibault. "The Government of Canada is investing in green projects that will provide quality drinking water, clean our environment and improve our quality of life."

The $321,516 project will provide new water and sewer lines along Main Street. Once completed, the project will result in improved water service and wastewater collection. The project is also expected to increase the number of households connected to municipal services and reduce the risk of water line breaks in a high-traffic area of Westville. The federal and provincial funding under the program is subject to the formal acceptance of the Town of Westville, which will fund the balance of the project.

"This upgrade will improve both water distribution and wastewater collection systems to the residents of Westville," said Pictou County Warden Allister MacDonald. "I am pleased to see the cooperation amongst the three levels of government to bring about 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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