Fifteen projects in communities from Cornwall to Kensington, with a total value of more than $7.6 million, have been announced under the first round of the Canada-Prince Edward Island Infrastructure Program.
"These projects will address immediate needs in the community, and I am pleased that investment in infrastructure remains a priority for the Government of Canada," said Wayne Easter, Member of Parliament for Malpeque on behalf of the Honourable Robert Thibault, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).
Investments in green municipal infrastructure which is the first priority under the Program include expansions to the waste treatment facility in Cavendish, as well as an expansion to the sewer line along Route #6. Warren Grove water and wastewater systems will be expanded along Route #248. In North Rustico, water lines will be extended along Churchill Avenue and Gulf View Crescent.
Borden-Carleton will be constructing a water distribution system building and expanding its lagoon system. The community of Kinkora will also be increasing its lagoon capacity and improving its waste treatment. In Kensington, the sewer treatment plant will be upgraded and expanded.
"Enhancements to environmental infrastructure is a key component of the infrastructure program and a major priority of the Government of Prince Edward Island," said the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Community and Cultural Affairs. "This partnership will allow communities across the Island to enhance basic infrastructure which contribute to health and safety and our quality of life."
Other priorities of the infrastructure program include cultural and recreational facilities, infrastructure supporting tourism and local transportation, and affordable housing.
Thirteen partner communities have been approved to construct a $3.1 million Cornwall and Area Recreation Complex which will include a rink. The Central Queens Soccer Complex will be expanded and modernized. Renovations will be undertaken to the Crapaud Library as well as at the Hampshire and Bonshaw community centres. In addition, an outdoor multi-sport facility will be constructed in Breadalbane.
A total of 56 projects representing urban and rural communities across the province have been announced. During the five-year infrastructure program, the Government of Canada and the Government of Prince Edward Island will each contribute $12.8 million. The total minimum funding from local governments must equal this amount. Under the first round, the federal and provincial governments have committed two-thirds of available funds. Other projects will be considered in the future.
The Canada-Prince Edward Island Infrastructure Program is administered by ACOA and the PEI Department of Community and Cultural Affairs. The Federation of PEI Municipalities is represented on the program's management committee.
Environmental assessments have been completed on 53 of the 56 projects. Final approval on the three remaining projects will not be granted until the environmental assessments are complete.