Province of BC announces that Infrastructure funding is on the way for Prince Rupert, Port Edward

Residents of Prince Rupert and Port Edward have a bit of an idea as to how much their home communities will be sharing in a one billion dollar infrastructure fund, with North Coast MLA Jennifer Rice releasing the details today, as to how the funding will be distributed to the two municipalities.

“North Coast covers a vast area of the province with many unique communities,. Each of these communities has their own needs and priorities, and this funding will make a big impact to better serve people in these areas. As communities continue to grow, local governments are having to meet increased strain on infrastructure and amenities including roads, transit, water and electrical systems, as well as community centers, parks and social services."-- North Coast MLA Jennifer Rice  

The Growing Communities Fund was introduced February 10th by Premier David Eby, the $1 billion fund accessible for B.C.’s 188 municipalities and regional districts to be used to support their unique needs.

The new funding initiative was also mentioned as part of Tuesday's Provincial budget.

Towards what the two largest communities on the North Coast will receive from the province.

Ms. Rice noted that the City of Prince Rupert will receive $4,068,000. 

While the District of Port Edward is receiving $669,000 

North Coast Regional District is set to receive $1,162,000

Prince Rupert Mayor Herb Pond and
North Coast MLA Jennifer Rice
(image from MLA Rice's office)

Ms. Rice further observed that the grants are intended to complement, rather than displace, existing infrastructure funding (like sewer, water, roads).

For Haida Gwaii the funding allocation looks as follows:

The Village of Masset is receiving $764,000 

The Village of Daajing Giids is receiving $863,000 

The Village of Port Clements is receiving $600,000

The full announcement from the Province of British Columbia can be examined here.

Municipal infrastructure issues such as our recent waterline
issues make for the direction of a 1 billion dollar provincial fund

So far neither Mayor Herb Pond or the City of Prince Rupert have made a statement towards the provincial funding coming our way.

We may get an idea as to where the City will be allocating it's 4 million dollars on Monday, when City Council hosts their first Council session for March.

More notes on the city's infrastructure issues can be reviewed here.

A wider overview of past Council discussion themes is available here.

A look at the latest notes from the legislature can be explored here.