Feds, province announce $2M in funding for several community projects
The federal and provincial governments have announced more than $1.9 million in funding for infrastructure construction three projects in communities.
In Emo, a northern Ontario township near the border with Minnesota, the governments announced $524,000 in funding for improvements to the township’s potable water infrastructure.
The federal government will invest $286,000 in the project while the province will contribute $238,000. The township itself will invest $191,000.
The project includes upgrading the township's water treatment facility by flushing existing water pipes to remove excess sand buildup, installing an intake screen to prevent blockages, upgrading the chemical feed system, and installing a switchover panel and anion exchange treatment solution, which softens water and removes unwanted minerals.
The upgrades will improve the facility's performance, lengthen its lifespan, and ensure area residents have increased access to quality drinking water and a healthier living environment.
"The Township of Emo greatly appreciates the assistance provided by both the federal and provincial governments through the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Plan,” said Emo Mayor Harold McQuaker. “This funding enables the Township of Emo to address a suitable treatment process to support the reduction of THMs and HAAs in the drinking water system in order to ensure continued safe and reliable potable water for our residents and for future residents of Emo."
Meanwhile, in Brampton, the governments committed just over $1 million in funding for renovations to the Chinguacousy Wellness Centre.
The federal government’s share of the project funding is $572,000, while the province is contributing $476,000. The City of Brampton is also contributing $381,000.
The Chinguacousy Wellness Centre is a gym and fitness centre located on Peter Robertson Road in Brampton. Planned work to the city-owned facility includes interior and exterior renovations to improve accessibility and user experience. Interior upgrades include new washrooms, change rooms, a sauna, locker amenities, and shower facilities. Upgraded floor drainage in all areas, including retiling of the hot tub area, will also enhance safety.
On the building's exterior, repairs to the walkways and catch basins will improve drainage on the north side. Upgraded parking lot lighting will include brighter, more energy efficient fixtures.
The Chinguacousy Wellness Centre remains closed due to the public-health measures relating to COVID-19. The renovations are expected to start in the spring.
"We are proud to welcome these significant investments from the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario in Brampton's Chinguacousy Wellness Centre,” said Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown. “Brampton is a Healthy and Safe City and we will continue to ensure Chinguacousy Wellness Centre and all of our recreation centres offer residents an accessible, safe experience to stay healthy and active, and have fun."
Finally, in Brantford, the governments announced combined funding of $339,000 for improvements to the Boys & Girls Club of Brantford's facilities.
Work on the project includes renovating and expanding the club's existing kitchen facility by upgrading cabinets, counters, floors and appliances, and improving accessibility. Renovations will also update the kitchen's lighting, plumbing and electrical to meet current building code requirements.
The larger, renovated space will create greater efficiencies in food preparation, and allow the Club to expand their programming and community relationships so that more young people may develop their skills while strengthening community connections.
Once complete, a renovated kitchen facility means that the Boys & Girls Club can expand and explore new opportunities, such as working with post-secondary institutions and the food industry to introduce children and youth to employment and career opportunities.
"These renovations will not only tackle our need to address a worn and outdated, inefficient 30-year old space, it will allow the club to support food security barriers facing our children, youth and families at a higher capacity,” said Deanna Searle, executive director, Boys & Girls Club of Brantford. “The space will support our need and abilities to introduce children and youth to even further experiences that enhance their skills, knowledge, and awareness, and have a positive impact on their social well-being. Employment and career avenues will be further introduced and explored, our existing community relationships can be broadened and new ventures can be developed."