Municipal Infrastructure Improvements Announced for St. George’s

The construction of a new fire hall highlights the Municipal Capital Works projects announced for the Town of St. George’s. Through Budget 2011, the Provincial Government will contribute approximately $1.5 million toward municipal infrastructure projects for the St. George’s-Stephenville East area.

“The current fire hall in St. George’s has served the community well, however, there is a need for a new, larger building to enhance the services offered by the volunteer fire department,” said the Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Municipal Affairs. “Fire halls are important infrastructure for communities as they are focal points for emergency services. A new facility will certainly serve St. George’s well.”

A 357 square metre fire hall will be constructed within the Town of St. George’s to replace the current fire hall. St. George’s will also receive 2011 Municipal Capital Works funding to replace the pressure reduction valve of its water system, which will improve water services, and funding to carry out repairs to the roof of the Siki Bennett Memorial Stadium.

“I was extremely pleased to inform the town council and residents of St. George’s that the Provincial Government will support the construction of a new fire hall,” said the Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Education and MHA for St. George’s - Stephenville East. “This is a much needed facility for a growing community and will no doubt improve the emergency response capability of the fire department. As well, the Siki Bennett Memorial Stadium plays such an important part of the lives of residents, that the repairs to the roof are most welcome, along with the water and sewer project for the town.”

Budget 2011 Standing Strong: For Prosperity. For Our Future. For Newfoundland and Labrador included $140.8 million for new and ongoing municipal infrastructure projects. When combined with federal cost-shared programs and municipal contributions, the total investment this year is expected to be approximately $219 million.

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Photo: (L – R) St. George’s Mayor Fintan Alexander, Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Education and MHA for St. George’s – Stephenville East, and St. George’s Fire Chief Harry Piercy discuss the announcement of a new fire hall.

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2011 07 05             9:40 a.m.