Officials from three levels of government hope more than $39 million in new funding can mitigate risk of flooding in Fredericton.
Regent Street acted as Monday’s backdrop for provincial, federal and municipal governments as they unveiled plans to improve Fredericton’s water and wastewater infrastructure.
Officials said the funding will support improvements to the drinking water, storm water and sewage systems.
It also aims to upgrade streets and off-street piping to be better prepared for heavier rainfalls.
Fredericton MP Jenica Atwin called the investment “critical” for the health of cities and to protect the environment.
“Upgrading these assets in Fredericton will help our community to adapt and mitigate the impacts of the climate crisis and provide easier, safer and more convenient active transportation infrastructure,” she said.
The City of Fredericton typically experiences heavy flooding in the spring as the snow from the previous winter melts.
Mayor Kate Rogers said the provincial and federal money will allow the city to replace and maintain infrastructure after natural disasters.
She also said the funding helps pave the way for “active transportation projects.”
“A vibrant active transportation system is not only good for the environment it also makes residents more resilient in light of the ever-growing effects of climate change,” said Rogers.
“It’s crucial that all levels of government keep working together to improve climate resilience for communities like Fredericton and for the people who live here.”