The Town of Pelham is set to build a new, zero-carbon library building, thanks in part to funding from the federal government.

Niagara Centre MP Vance Badawey was among those on hand to announce $5.4 million in federal funding to support the construction of a new 18,000-square foot library located near the town's existing community centre.

The three-storey facility has been designed to achieve net-zero carbon status, and will include accessibility features and green energy and climate resiliency components, such as solar panels, glazing and abundant natural lighting.

"Investing in community and recreational infrastructure is essential to creating communities that are welcoming, inclusive, and sustainable," said Badawey. “Today's announcement for the new Pelham library will ensure that all residents have access to a modern facility where they can safely connect and learn for many years to come.”

Project funding is being provided through the federal Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program. The money is conditional on the town fulfilling all requirements related to consultation with Indigenous communities and environmental assessment, and on the signing of a contribution agreement.

"With federal support, the Town of Pelham will now be able to replace a facility that while beautiful, has aged badly,” said Pelham Mayor Marvin Junkin. “The community can look forward to high quality library programming and materials in a comfortable, convenient environment at the MCC.”

The Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program will provide $1.5 billion over five years towards green and accessible retrofits, repairs or upgrades of existing public community buildings and the construction of new publicly-accessible community buildings that serve high-needs, underserved communities across Canada.