The east Kawkawa Lake water system will be receiving a significant upgrade this year, thanks to a $450,000 contribution from Canada’s Gas Tax Fund.
Chilliwack-Fraser Canyon MP Mark Strahl announced the federal funding for the project on Tuesday at district hall.
“This strategic infrastructure investment will improve the quality of drinking water in the District of Hope for years to come,” he said.
The aging water system, which is vulnerable to contamination, will undergo several upgrades. Water lines currently sitting at the bottom of drainage ditches will be buried, and a monitoring system will be installed to better gauge water use and identify potential leaks in the future.
Replacing open ditches with culverts for runoff and wastewater will also reduce the amount of harmful pollutants that empty directly into Kawkawa Lake.
“East Kawkawa Lake was formally under the FVRD, and it’s well behind infrastructure standards in other parts of Hope,” said town manager Earl Row.
“Today’s announcement is really important because it begins the creation of water infrastructure in an area with one of the neediest streets.”
Hope has been waiting four years to receive funding for this project, which is scheduled to complete by the end of 2012. The federal contribution is expected to cover all upgrade expenses.
“A project like this is not only a major investment in our growing community, but an investment in the quality of life for residents and the environment alike,” said Mayor Susan Johnston.
