On August 20, 2020 the governments of Canada and Quebec took decisive economic recovery action by investing in green infrastructure projects in all regions of Quebec. Providing communities with modern and reliable water infrastructure is a shared priority for both governments.
The Government of Canada is investing $318.9 million in these projects through the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada infrastructure plan. The Government of Quebec is providing over $318.9 million through the Fonds pour l’infrastructure municipale d’eau (FIMEAU) funding program.
“Our government is restarting the economy in Quebec regions and municipalities which has been severely challenged in recent months. Today’s announcement is in line with this goal and will contribute to the development of prosperous living environments. We will continue to work closely with our valued municipal partners to modernize our infrastructure and offer quality services to Québecers,” said Andrée Laforest, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
The joint funding contributed a total of over $637.8 million for 280 drinking water, storm water and wastewater projects in municipalities throughout Quebec. These projects include the rehabilitation of existing water pipes, pumping stations and water treatment facilities as well as the construction of new facilities.
“Building healthy communities starts with investing in essential services. Working with our provincial and municipal partners, we are ensuring Quebecers have access to safe and reliable drinking water and wastewater systems. Modern and efficient water infrastructure is essential to support healthy and resilient communities throughout Quebec. Canada’s infrastructure plan invests in thousands of projects, creates jobs across the country, and builds stronger communities,” said Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities.
$86 million of the funding will go to the Montréal region, which will benefit from 11 water and wastewater modernization projects in Montréal, plus one in Senneville.
“In LaSalle-Émard-Verdun, we have the opportunity to enjoy the Lachine Canal and the St. Lawrence River. Water plays an important role not only for the citizens but also for the economic vitality of our riding. I am proud to welcome my colleague, Minister McKenna, to the Atwater drinking water plant complex, and that our government is investing in Montreal’s economic recovery as well as a greener and more prosperous Canada,” explained David Lametti, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Member of Parliament for LaSalle-Émard-Verdun.
These projects involve replacing over 70 kilometers of water pipes as well as associated road restoration and roadway landscaping. The federal and provincial governments are each investing $43 million.
“Government investments are essential to communities of all sizes. Thanks to this important investment, the Montréal and Senneville projects will not only modernize aging infrastructure, but will also help reduce significant water loss from underground networks. This is a win-win situation for both the economy and the environment!” concluded Chantal Rouleau, Minister for Transport and Minister responsible for the Metropolis and the Montréal Region.
Photo of the Montreal Biosphere is by Andreas H. from Pixabay.