Sewer, Water Upgrades for Valley Towns

Wayne Gaudet, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, announced today that up to $394,025 in funding will be provided under the Provincial Capital Assistance Program (PCAP) for sewer and water improvement projects in Berwick, Bridgetown and Middleton.

"We have been working with these towns on a continual basis to help them achieve their goals with respect to sewer and water," said Mr. Gaudet. "I am so pleased that with this PCAP funding we are able to assist them in targeting some vital upgrades without further delay."

Berwick will construct a new $577,500 wastewater filtration and disinfection system with the help of 50 per cent cost-sharing. The improvements will ensure that the town's sewage treatment plant complies with Department of Environment treatment requirements. It will complete a 10-year sewer treatment plant improvement project and will also ensure that all sewage treatment plants along the Cornwallis River, from Hantsport to Yarmouth, have treated wastewater disinfection.

"This has been a real environmental concern, and with provincial funding we now are able to address this issue," said Berwick Mayor John Prall. "Many thanks to the efforts put forth by the province on our behalf."

Middleton will receive up to $87,000 toward sewage treatment plant upgrades totalling $175,000. Handrails, ladders, mechanical screens, and various other features will be added to ensure that the plant meets standards set by the departments of Environment and Labour. This is just one step in a continuing effort to improve sewer service in the area and create a healthier environment for residents.

Middleton Mayor Sylvester Atkinson also welcomed the funding news. "I am pleased to hear of the approval so that work may commence on the project as planned," he said.

The province will contribute up to $17,775 to a water-main replacement project in Carleton Corner, Bridgetown. The funding will go toward a $71,000 replacement of aging piping, resulting in more reliable water service for the area. Since 1995, the Department of Housing and Municipal Affairs has been participating in this project through PCAP as well as the Canada/Nova Scotia Infrastructure Works Program.

"The town is very pleased that the Department of Housing and Municipal Affairs continues to support this worthwhile project," said Bridgetown Mayor Ted Pettit.

PCAP is designed to enable the government of Nova Scotia to contribute financially toward the cost of municipal sewer, water, and solid-waste capital projects, as well as related studies.