Infrastructure Funding Project in Tusket
SERVICE N.S./MUNICIPAL RELATIONS--Infrastructure Funding Project in Tusket
Tusket residents will soon benefit from municipal wastewater collection and treatment thanks to a $2.6-million project funded through the Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program.
Joint federal and provincial funding of $1,745,434 was announced today, Nov. 28, by Chris d'Entremont, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, on behalf of Barry Barnet, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations, and Robert Thibault, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of Gerry Byrne, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. The Municipality of the District of Argyle will fund the balance upon formal acceptance of the agreement.
"The government of Canada is working with Nova Scotians to address some of the fundamental needs of our communities," said Mr. Thibault. "Through the Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program, we are investing in projects like the Tusket Sewage Collection and Treatment project which will ensure safe, reliable wastewater services for Tusket households."
One of the first priorities under the program is green municipal infrastructure that ensures effective wastewater management and safe drinking water. Other priorities are the support of long-term economic growth, improved community infrastructure and the building of 21st century infrastructure.
"This project is very important to Tusket residents," said Mr. d'Entremont. "I'm pleased to be able to take a part in an investment that will have a positive impact on the quality of life in this area for years to come."
The Tusket Sewage Collection and Treatment project provides for the design and construction of a sewage collection and treatment system for the community. The new small-diameter pressure sewers and recirculating sand filter will replace about 112 aging on-site sewage disposal systems, many of which are malfunctioning and in danger of contaminating private wells, as well as an old collection and treatment system serving seven homes.
"We are delighted to receive the funding to begin this important project," said Aldric d'Entremont, warden of the Municipality of the District of Argyle. "This project will have some significant benefits for the health of our community and will make a real impact on the quality of life of our citizens."
This is one of a series of approval announcements for projects under the program, which has invested more than $158-million in 100 projects to date. 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.