Grant to help Lake Cowichan deal with wastewater
Lake Cowichan has received one of its largest grants in recent memory — $1.5 million through the federal government Gas Tax Fund, to replace the town’s aging wastewater system.
“We are certainly very pleased that our application for funding has been approved,” said Mayor Ross Forrest. “Our town has limited financial resources, and this funding will make it possible for us to make these improvements.”
Upgrades will build upon the existing facility to increase treatment capacity.
Also in the works will be the development of a rainwater management strategy to guide land-use planning to minimize the impact of rainwater runoff on the Cowichan River.
The plan will also address drainage for rare and extreme weather to protect public safety and property, a media release explained.
“Our government is proud to invest in the long-term health and prosperity of the Cowichan Valley,” said Minister of State (Finance) and Member of Parliament Ted Menzies. “In addition to protecting the Cowichan River and the surrounding environment, these infrastructure improvements will also create local jobs and strengthen the economy.”
The total cost of the project is estimated at nearly $1.7 million.
Lake Cowichan will contribute an estimated $337,000 toward the overall bill.
The Cowichan Valley Regional District have approved sharing $350,000 in gas tax funding as part of the $1.35 million total grant for this project.
And for the drainage planning improvement project, the lake community will also receive an additional $172,450 from the Gas Tax Fund.
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