Provincial Government Invests in New Water Tank for Town of Badger

The Provincial Government will provide additional funding of $591,920 to enable the Town of Badger to decommission their existing water tank and install a new modern tank system. This investment will provide a reliable water supply in the community for years to come.

“It is important that key projects which will supply reliable and high-quality drinking water are given top priority,” said the Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Municipal Affairs. “This additional funding will enable the town to replace their aging water supply infrastructure and install a new modern system for the benefit of all residents.”

Originally, funding of $562,966 was provided under the 2012 Municipal Capital Works Program to undertake structural repair of the tank. An assessment of the tank was completed by a consulting firm, which determined that the tank should not be put back in service due to corrosion and structural issues. The Department of Municipal Affairs has reviewed the report and concurs with the findings.

The total cost to decommission and remove the existing tank and replace it with new infrastructure will be approximately $1.022 million. This includes funding to cover a temporary deep well system which will be utilized while the replacement of the tank is ongoing.

“I am pleased to see the continued partnership between the Town of Badger and the Provincial Government in the upgrading of the water system,” said the Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister of Health and Community Services and MHA for Grand Falls-Windsor – Buchans. “Government committed to getting this project completed, and has now ensured that funding is available for the replacement of the tank.”

Access to reliable and clean drinking water is essential to the growth and prosperity of communities. The Department of Municipal Affairs works closely with municipalities around the province to fund projects which further develop the infrastructure required to provide access to water on a sustainable basis.

“The Town of Badger is grateful for the continued support of the Provincial Government towards the completion of this project,” said Michael Patey, Mayor of Badger. “The new system will enable us to bring high quality water to our residents for years to come.”

Costs for the project will be shared according to standard cost-share ratios, and work on the project is ongoing.

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2013 02 05                                 9:20 a.m.