This release was issued under a previous government.

In Budget 2016, the Alberta government set aside $595 million over the next five years to help pay for water and wastewater improvement projects in small towns and rural Alberta. This funding will improve access to safe, reliable water supplies and enhance environmentally sustainable wastewater treatment, while creating hundreds of jobs in communities across the province.

The investment includes more than $100,000 in funding for upgrades to the wastewater treatment system in Whitecourt as part of the Alberta Municipal Water/Wastewater Partnership and Water For Life grant programs that saw increased funding by the Alberta Government in Budget 2016.

“We will remain focused on investing in Alberta’s public infrastructure, so that our province continues to serve the needs of Albertans today and for generations to come. Water projects like this one improve the quality of life for Albertans in smaller communities.”

Brian Mason, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“I’m proud that our government continues to invest in the vibrant community of Whitecourt by improving its wastewater treatment system. Strengthening our local infrastructure is an essential part of building a stronger community.”

Oneil Carlier, MLA for Whitecourt-Ste.Anne

"The Town of Whitecourt has made it a priority to invest in the ongoing maintenance and enhancement of our core infrastructure to ensure our services continue meet growing community demands – both in the present and future.  We appreciate the Province’s financial support of the operational enhancements at the wastewater treatment plant.”

Maryann Chichak, Mayor, Town of Whitecourt

The $135,999 grant will support the installation of storage tanks, pumping systems and piping that will regulate and distribute oxidizing agents throughout the wastewater treatment system.

This project will improve wastewater treatment in the area, protect the local watershed and create jobs for the local economy.

Alberta government restores vital water system funding

Previously reduced funding for these important grant programs meant that a number of projects were delayed in many communities. With this increased funding, delayed projects will move forward and hundreds of jobs will be created across the province.

The Alberta government cost-shares eligible projects with smaller urban and rural municipalities to help with the design and construction of municipal water supply and treatment, and wastewater treatment and disposal facilities.