Municipal and Intergovernmental Affairs
June 20, 2014

Sound Investments in Community Infrastructure

$1.7 Million Invested in Fire and Water Services for Bell Island

The Provincial Government, in partnership with the community of Wabana, is committing over $1.7 million for the construction of a new fire hall and upgrades to the water system. The announcement was made today by the Honourable Steve Kent, Minister of Municipal and Intergovernmental Affairs, along with David Brazil, MHA for Conception Bay East - Bell Island.

“Our volunteer firefighters require the necessary facilities and equipment to fulfil their duties and assist residents in times of need. This commitment of $1.5 million will build a modern and efficient fire hall which will enhance fire services on Bell Island. In addition, a $200,000 investment will result in improved water quality for residents in the area for years to come.”
- The Honourable Steve Kent, Minister of Municipal and Intergovernmental Affairs

Funding for these projects is cost-shared, with the Provincial Government providing 90 per cent of the funding and the Town of Wabana contributing the remaining 10 per cent.

The new fire hall will have a three-bay garage, with the capability to service up to five vehicles, a training room, chief's office and other support spaces necessary for a modern fire response facility. In addition to the $1.5 million announced today, in 2013 the Provincial Government provided $120,000 for an early design initiative so that consulting work related to this project could be completed prior to the tender call stage.

In addition, $200,000 is being invested for the installation of two wells and a distribution line, which is part of an ongoing project to upgrade water services in the Town of Wabana.

“Through this $1.7 million investment, we will see an improvement in the quality of life for residents. I would like to thank the residents, volunteers, and community leaders for their help in moving the fire hall project forward. This new facility will enhance fire protection, and support the work of our volunteer fire department.”
- David Brazil, MHA for Conception Bay East - Bell Island

As part of investments through Budget 2014: Shared Prosperity, Fair Society, Balanced Outlook, the Provincial Government has allocated $200 million for a three-year program for municipal infrastructure projects.

QUICK FACTS

  • In partnership with the Town of Wabana, the Provincial Government is committing over $1.7 million for a new fire hall and the completion of a water system.
  • The projects are cost-shared, with the Provincial Government providing 90 per cent of funding and the Town of Wabana providing the remaining 10 per cent.
  • As part of Budget 2014 investments, the Provincial Government has allocated $200 million for a three-year program for municipal infrastructure projects.

- 30 -

Media contacts:

Hugh Donnan
Director of Communications
Department of Municipal Affairs
709-729-1983, 725-6511
hughdonnan@gov.nl.ca

Mary Anne Dillon
Constituency Assistant to
David Brazil
MHA for Conception Bay East - Bell Island
709-729-0334
maryannedillon@gov.nl.ca

2014 06 20                               2:20 p.m.