The Town of Pictou is set to bolster its coastal protection and stormwater infrastructure, thanks to a significant investment from the Province of Nova Scotia. These projects are designed to enhance the town’s resilience against climate change and support long-term community growth.
The investment will fund two major projects in Pictou. The first involves reconstructing Caladh Avenue and the surrounding area to elevate the road network, offering greater protection from coastal hazards. The second project will see the installation of approximately 250 metres of new stormwater piping around Coleraine Street, improving the collection and management of stormwater in the area.
“Pictou is an outstanding place to raise a family or own a business. To ensure it stays that way, the town needs the infrastructure in place that will help it thrive and grow,” said Marco MacLeod, MLA for Pictou West, on behalf of John Lohr, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “These projects are important, and we’re thrilled to be working with the municipality to help make them happen.”
The Province and the Town of Pictou will each contribute nearly $2 million to these infrastructure upgrades. This initiative is part of the broader Municipal Capital Growth Program, a one-time $102-million investment aimed at addressing critical infrastructure needs across Nova Scotia, including housing, climate change, and municipal growth.
Jim Ryan, Mayor of Pictou, emphasized the significance of these projects for the town’s future. “The Town of Pictou is always pleased to partner with the Province on projects that improve the sustainability of our infrastructure while furthering our long-term plans for community growth. The separation of stormwater from our wastewater system will reduce sewage treatment costs while increasing our capacity to service commercial and housing growth. The re-engineering of Caladh Avenue will move us forward on our extensive waterfront plan while defending our downtown district from the coastal impacts of climate change. We thank the Government of Nova Scotia for its continued investment in our community.”
The importance of these upgrades extends beyond immediate infrastructure improvements. The projects align with Nova Scotia’s broader efforts to protect coastal communities from the impacts of climate change. In February, the Province released “The Future of Nova Scotia’s Coastline,” a comprehensive plan with 15 actions aimed at making coastal communities more climate-resilient. Additionally, the government has made substantial investments in programs like the Community Climate Capacity Program and the development of municipal flood-line maps, all of which support municipalities like Pictou in better preparing for and mitigating flood risks.
As Pictou continues to develop its infrastructure, these projects will play a crucial role in safeguarding the community from environmental challenges while laying the groundwork for future growth.
