The Honourable Pat Mella, Provincial Treasurer, on behalf of the Government of Prince Edward Island and the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Member of Parliament for Cardigan, on behalf of the Government of Canada today announced the approval of Canada Strategic Infrastructure funding for the expansion of the municipal water system in Stratford to service growing areas of the community. The project has an estimated cost of $10.8 million cost-shared equally among the federal, provincial and municipal governments.
"The Town of Stratford has experienced a number of water contamination problems over the past several years, and this initiative will go a long way in helping to alleviate those concerns while paving the way for future development," says Minister Pat Mella. "Access to a dependable supply of safe drinking water is a basic human necessity, and the Government of Prince Edward Island is committed to working with municipalities and residents in addressing the health and safety needs of our communities."
"Today's announcement is responding to a critical need in the Town of Stratford for clean and reliable drinking water. Further development of this community would not be feasible without this strategic infrastructure investment to connect more households to the central water system," said Mr. MacAulay. "The Government of Canada is pleased to support one of the Island's fastest-growing communities in ensuring the safety of its citizens and encouraging future growth."
Water problems in the Town of Stratford have been a growing concern. During the past year, in some areas of the town, 50 per cent of water samples were undrinkable because of high levels of total coliform or E. coli bacteria.
The problems in Stratford have been traced back to a number of sources related to poor well construction and failing sewage systems, as well as the overall density of development in the area. History has clearly shown that, as an area becomes more densely populated, the likelihood of total coliform problems increases. That is why a central water and sewer system is the recommended and most sustainable method of servicing a high-density development. These concerns will be addressed with this expansion to Stratford's municipal water system to service growing areas of the community.
Through the Canada Strategic Infrastructure Fund, the Government of Canada continues to collaborate with provincial, territorial and municipal governments, as well as with the private sector, to invest in strategic infrastructure projects across the country. Investments made through the Canada Strategic Infrastructure Fund are directed to large-scale projects of major national and regional significance, in areas that are vital to sustaining economic growth and supporting an enhanced quality of life for Canadians. Under this fund the Government of Canada has committed up to $15 million for three projects in PEI.