July 20, 1999
(MHA)

The following is being distributed at the request of Kevin Aylward, MHA -St. George's - Stephenville East:

Kevin Aylward, MHA - St. George's - Stephenville East, is pleased with the announcement of $9.5 million under the Multi-Year Municipal Capital Works Program. The province is committed to 50/50 sharing on $5 million with $2.5 million provided under the 1999/2000 Multi Year Municipal Capital Works Program, and the remainder to be funded in future years.

Projects in the town that will receive funding include completion of water and sewer services to Queen Street and a section of West Street; the completion of a drilled well water supply; the recap and paving of 9.7 kilometres of local roads and funds to assist the Stephenville Fire Department.

Mr. Aylward said he was pleased with this significant provincial contribution toward much needed municipal infrastructure. "This cost-sharing arrangement between the Town of Stephenville and the province with allow for the major extension of water and sewer servicing in the town. The use of a multi-year approach to capital funding is excellent news, because it will allow the municipality to effectively plan their development activities over the next number of years. The commitment of funding to address all of the water and sewer needs contained in the application will also ensure that the priority water and sewer needs are addressed now, rather than in the future."

The projects approved will allow for much more comprehensive planning and development within the municipalities. The addition of this infrastructure will also make it easier for municipalities to seek out economic development opportunities.

Mr. Aylward said: "This funding is also welcome news in that it will create additional employment and economic spinoff benefits within the district during construction. I'm sure Mayor Stein is very pleased to see this commitment from the province in the town's efforts to increase municipal servicing for the residents of Stephenville."

Media contact: Cynthia Layden-Barron, Communications, (709) 729-6183.

1999 07 20         10:30 a.m.