I understand the ongoing concerns of Swansea Point residents, following last June’s flooding at Hummingbird Creek that damaged homes in the area (Proposed fix for Hummingbird Creek doesn’t go far enough, Feb. 20).
On Feb. 5, I toured Hummingbird Creek and was briefed on the channel improvement project. Contrary to a statement in the article, the work that got underway this week was planned long in advance of MLA Corrigan’s visit.
This includes deepening the creek bed and strengthening the bank at various locations above and below the highway culvert to improve creek flow and reduce the risk of debris falling into the creek.
Final stream repair work at Hummingbird Creek will be completed before spring freshet, with the work being funded 100 per cent by the government of B.C.
There is a long history of flooding in this area. In 2004, the government of B.C. offered $4 million to build a bridge and debris trap and basin to help residents protect their properties. It’s unfortunate that a referendum on the improvement failed and we were unable to proceed with a more comprehensive solution, but we will continue work with the community to protect residents and their property.
Mary PolakMinister of Transportation and Infrastructure
