News Release

ST. MARGARETS (GNB) – The community of St. Margarets received an estimated $2.15 million in funding for upgrades to their water infrastructure.

The project, announced today, is being funded through the Gas Tax Fund and involves upgrades to the water system including two kilometres of new PVC water main, the replacement of hydrants, the replacement of service connections, repairs to the reservoir, and a major upgrade to the existing water treatment building.

“We are excited to see the funding in place to provide a long-term solution to addressing the necessary upgrades to this infrastructure,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Bill Fraser. “Our government is committed to ensuring safe drinking water and effective wastewater treatment as a means of helping preserve the health and safety of residents and of safeguarding the environment.”

Fraser spoke on behalf of Environment and Local Government Minister Serge Rousselle.

The project also includes the installation of a back-up generator to provide protection in case of future power outages such as the one this past January.

“The Government of Canada is committed to investing in local infrastructure that ensures Canadians and their families have access to modern, reliable water and wastewater services that meet their needs,” said Miramichi-Grand Lake MP Pat Finnigan. “We are proud to be investing in these important upgrades to St. Margarets’ water infrastructure, which will safeguard the health and well-being of residents while helping protect local waterways for years to come.”

Finnigan commented for federal Infrastructure and Communities Minister Amarjeet Sohi.

The St. Margarets Water and Wastewater Commission provides water distribution and wastewater collection to an area southeast of the City of Miramichi. The subdivision consists of many original residences from the former Chatham Airfield and much of the infrastructure is over 60 years old.

“Today’s investment represents a significant step forward in providing safe and reliable drinking water and wastewater infrastructure for our community and we thank the government for their support and the many residents who have worked hard to manage the aging system and who have advocated for these necessary upgrades,” said commission treasurer Sherry Vallieres.

The annual $2-billion federal Gas Tax Fund is intended to provide predictable, long-term funding to help Canadian municipalities build and revitalize their local infrastructure while creating jobs and long-term prosperity. Projects are chosen locally and prioritized according to the infrastructure needs of each community.