Over $3.1M being invested to upgrade Taylor wastewater treatment plant

TAYLOR, B.C. — An over $3.1 million investment to upgrade the District of Taylor’s wastewater treatment plant was announced last week.

Mayor of Taylor, Brent Taillefer, the federal Minister of International Development, Harjit S. Sajjan, and B.C.’s  Minister for Municipal Affairs, Anne Kang, announced the $3.1 million joint investment on May 18th.

The Government of Canada is investing $1,258,960 on this project, while the Government of British Columbia is investing $1,049,028, and Taylor is contributing $839,412.

A concrete sludge management facility will be built at the plant through the funding, according to an Infrastructure Canada release. The work involved includes installing new valves, pipes and pumps and a centrifuge to separate different liquids to reduce sludge accumulation. 

“These upgrades will create a more sustainable wastewater management system that will protect the health of the environment and residents,” said a release.

Mayor Taillefer said the district is grateful for the partnership with the federal and provincial governments, along with the opportunity to invest in infrastructure upgrades.

“Funding support received to create a more reliable wastewater infrastructure system will ensure that essential services continue to be offered to our residents and will strengthen the resiliency of our community.  This new facility will contribute to decreasing environmental impacts while increasing the longevity of this valuable asset,” said Taillefer in a statement.

The wastewater plant upgrades mark 70 infrastructure projects under the Government of Canada’s Green Infrastructure Stream that have been funded in B.C.

Under the Investing in Canada Plan, the federal government is investing more than $180 billion over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and Canada’s rural and northern communities.