Sicamous, BC – John Baird, Canada’s Transport and Infrastructure Minister, along with B.C. Community Development Minister, Kevin Krueger, recently announced federal and provincial support for the development of up to 161 community infrastructure projects that will create jobs and help build stronger communities through a joint investment of close to $48 million.

Today, MP Colin Mayes and MLA George Abbott announced $388,000 in funding for the extension of the District of Sicamous’ Mara Water System to 15 single family residences as part of the Towns for Tomorrow program. The current water system which services these residents is supplied by an intake in Shuswap Lake that is not maintainable, not very accessible, and does not meet construction standards.  Additionally, this source is not in line with the Interior Health Authority’s water treatment objectives.  This project will improve water quality and fire flows for residents of this area.

“I am proud to work with a government whose priority is the provision of safe drinking water to all Canadians” said MP Colin Mayes, Okanagan-Shuswap.

“These investments provide jobs and support integral infrastructure,” said Shuswap MLA George Abbott. “Through this funding we are working to ensure that all residents have equal access to water services and to the resources they need.”

“The District would like to thank both the Provincial and Federal Governments especially the Hon. George Abbott and Hon. Colin Mayes for their efforts in securing this funding for connecting the CPR Hill Water System, which has been in existence since 1898 to the District’s main Mara Water System.” said Mayor Malcolm MacLeod.

The Government of Canada’s contribution to the Towns for Tomorrow and LocalMotion programs is conditional on the projects meeting all the federal requirements for infrastructure funding and the successful signing of a contribution agreement with the province. 

Towns for Tomorrow supports the infrastructure needs of communities under 15,000 and LocalMotion provides funding for projects such as trails, bike lanes and pathways. To learn more about both programs visit: www.townsfortomorrow.gov.bc.ca and www.localmotion.gov.bc.ca.