The Town of Amherst will upgrade its infrastructure to help protect against climate-related flooding.
The Province of Nova Scotia recently announced $349,300 in funding for the project from the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund.
“We are seeing more and more of the devastating impacts that climate-related flooding can have on our communities,” said Tom Taggart, MLA for Colchester North, on behalf of Timothy Halman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change. “This investment not only strengthens Amherst’s ability to respond to climate change, but also serves as a model for other communities striving for a more sustainable future. Together, we are paving the way towards a greener, more resilient Nova Scotia.”
With this funding, the Town of Amherst will complete a stormwater management study and improve stormwater infrastructure. The upgrades will help reduce the risk of flooding in the area surrounding Dickey Brook, protecting the community from damage during heavy rainfall or storms.
The Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund is available to municipalities, non-profit and community organizations, post-secondary institutions and Mi’kmaw communities to help them respond to and prepare for climate change impacts, and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Quick Facts
- this project has two phases – Phase 1 involves work outside Dickey Brook, a watercourse running through the town, and Phase 2 focuses on construction within the brook itself
- the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund provides $15 million over three years for projects that help communities adapt to climate change, mitigate its impacts and help Nova Scotia reduce its greenhouse gas emissions
- the Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities was selected through a request for proposals process to develop and administer the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund on behalf of the government