Prince Rupert, British Columbia, receives $77.2 million for water, sewer system upgrades

(UI) — The port city of Prince Rupert, located in British Columbia, is set to undergo significant upgrades to its water distribution system and sewer line following a substantial $77.2 million federal investment from the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF).

The announcement, made by Minister Soraya Martinez Ferrada alongside Mayor Herb Pond, marks a pivotal moment for the city's infrastructure. With a focus on addressing critical concerns and increasing resilience to seismic events, the project aims to modernize century-old sewage pipes and fortify the water distribution infrastructure.

This funding will support the overhaul of essential water and wastewater systems, safeguarding community livelihoods, essential services, and local businesses. Moreover, it will minimize disruptions to global trade and supply chains through the Port of Prince Rupert, a vital economic gateway to Asian markets.

The project's scope includes upgrading 26 km (16 miles) of high-priority water mains and separating the combined sewer system to enhance stormwater management. Through excavation, soil stabilization, and the installation of new PVC piping, these efforts will significantly improve infrastructure reliability and functionality.

This initiative builds upon a previous provincial investment of $65 million towards water infrastructure renewal in March 2023. The importance of investing in adaptation measures is underscored, with each dollar spent on disaster preparedness potentially yielding $13 to $15 in benefits.

Minister Soraya Martinez Ferrada emphasized the significance of prioritizing resilience, particularly in the face of escalating natural disasters. Strengthening Prince Rupert's infrastructure not only enhances its capacity to withstand seismic events but also reinforces its role as a vital hub for global trade and commerce.

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