Fort St. John expected to spend $46.6 million on capital projects in 2024

FORT ST. JOHN B.C. — The draft of the 2024 capital budget was presented to Fort St. John council on January 22nd, which expects $46,577,025 to be spent on projects in 2024.

According to chief financial officer David Joy’s presentation to council, 77.7 per cent of the capital budget is funded by the Peace River Agreement (PRA).  

Other funding included in the budget came from federal and provincial grants totalling over $2,500,000, as well as over $11,000,000 in capital reserves.

“What sets Fort St. John apart from other municipalities in B.C. is that our entire capital program over the years has no effect on municipal tax revenue,” said Joy. 

According to the report, maintaining adequate tax reserves over several years has also allowed the city to add facilities and equipment as well as improve infrastructure. 

Highlights from the report indicate that the 100 Street rebuild will be finished, as well as Kin Park’s major upgrades being installed this year.

The total amount to be spent on roads between 2024 and 2028, including Northern Lights Drive and the 100 Street rebuild, came to over $47 million. Around $21 million is expected to be spent in 2024, with almost $9 million worth of building or reconstruction not set to start until 2026 and 2027. 

The total spent on facilities, buildings, and parks is expected to be nearly $14 million in 2024. Over $20 million will be spent between 2025 to 2028. 

Council will now review the operating and capital budgets before making a final decision in the next few months.

The full list of capital projects for 2024 can be viewed below: 

The full presentation on the 2024 operating and capital budgets to Fort St. John council can be viewed below: