Four communities across British Columbia are set to receive significant upgrades to their water infrastructure, thanks to a combined investment of over $7.6 million from the federal, provincial, and municipal governments. The announcement was made by MP Wilson Miao, Minister Anne Kang, and Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie.
In Richmond, a $2.3 million investment will fund substantial improvements at Minoru Park. The project includes constructing a new stormwater detention pond, enhancing ditches, and installing a recirculating pump and wet well to bolster the park’s stormwater management system. These upgrades are designed to increase water storage and treatment capacity, minimize flood risks, and maintain cleaner waterways. Additionally, the enhancements will improve pathway connections around the lake, promoting safety, comfort, and community engagement while preserving local ecosystems.
“For over four decades, Minoru Lakes Park has been an important and popular location for residents and visitors to enjoy nature in the middle of our growing city. This infrastructure funding has helped to support upgrades to make the park and lake an even more inviting location that is welcoming to people of all ages,” said Mayor Malcolm Brodie.
Beyond Richmond, the investment will also support critical water infrastructure projects in other parts of the province. These include rehabilitating a water storage reservoir and constructing a booster station in Hope, upgrading stormwater infrastructure in Harrison Hot Springs, and replacing a submarine watermain in the Regional District of Alberni-Clayoquot.
“A brighter future for British Columbia starts with investments in critical water infrastructure,” said MP Wilson Miao. “Today’s announcement of close to $8 million for four water infrastructure projects in Richmond and across the province will protect our communities, safeguard local waterways and ecosystems, preserve critical infrastructure, and ensure the continuity of essential services. These projects exemplify our commitment to collaborating with our partners to build more resilient communities and enhance the livelihoods of Canadians.”
Minister Anne Kang highlighted the importance of such investments: “Investment in infrastructure that provides safe drinking water and improves stormwater systems, management, and treatment is vital for communities like Richmond. I’m proud that all orders of government are working together to ensure communities across B.C. have sustainable water solutions that improve people’s quality of life for generations to come.”
The federal government is contributing $3.1 million to these projects through the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The Government of British Columbia is providing $2.6 million, while the municipalities are contributing a combined $2 million and covering any additional costs.
These investments are part of a broader initiative under the Investing in Canada Plan, which aims to enhance public infrastructure across the country, including green infrastructure projects that reduce pollution, provide clean water, and increase resilience to climate change.
