Infrastructure Program to Invest in Six More Projects
SERVICE N.S./MUNICIPAL RELATIONS--Infrastructure Program to Invest in Six More Projects
Six municipal projects got the green light to proceed today, in one of a series of federal-provincial infrastructure funding announcements to take place this year.
More than $7.8 million in joint federal-provincial funding was announced today by Robert Thibault, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of Gerry Byrne, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), and by Angus MacIsaac, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations.
"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 that support a healthy environment and provide high-quality water systems."
Green infrastructure projects promote safe drinking water, effective wastewater management and sound environmental practices that serve to benefit businesses, families and tourism in the province. All of the projects announced today are classified as green projects.
"Safe drinking water and a clean environment are basic quality- of-life issues, something that we should expect," said Mr. MacIsaac. "We are committed to working with the municipalities to ensure that Nova Scotians have access to both."
Municipalities across the province recommended a variety of projects to the federal and provincial governments in 2001 and outlined their priorities. The project proposals were then reviewed jointly by federal and provincial officials. Today's approvals are subject to formal acceptance by the host municipalities, which will fund the balance of the project costs.
"This announcement is very good news for these municipalities," said Jerry Blumenthal, president of the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities. "The infrastructure program is ensuring that improved, modern services are a reality for the residents of these six communities."
The Canada/Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program has announced 51 projects to date that are worth more than $58 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.