The Government of Canada and the City of Edmonton has announced more than $22 million in federal funding to help reduce flood risk and damage in Edmonton.
The project includes improvements that will help mitigate potential flooding hazards at the city’s Dece. Three new backwater prevention outfall gates will prevent river water from flowing back into the wastewater treatment plant during storm events, and a flood barrier along the northern edge of the plant will minimize flooding risks.
“Effective flood prevention and mitigation keep our communities safe. This federal investment will protect thousands of homes, businesses, and livelihoods in Edmonton against urban flood risks. Our Government will continue to invest in projects like these that build resilient communities and improve the lives of Edmontonians,” said Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance.
In addition, automatic gates and sensors will be added to 117 stormwater wet ponds in Edmonton, transitioning them into smart ponds. The smart ponds will detect and manage water levels and flow, which will help prevent flooding damage to the surrounding area.
“The City of Edmonton welcomes this additional funding from the Government of Canada to help minimize flood risks and the impacts of flooding on public health and safety. Edmonton has world class drinking water, and this funding to protect critical infrastructure will help ensure we continue to have a reliable supply of clean and safe drinking water,” said Amarjeet Sohi, Mayor of Edmonton.
Emergency preparedness and response during flood scenarios are key measures in keeping communities safe—and this funding will address these needs.
Together, these projects will help maintain essential wastewater treatment service and lessen the impact of flooding events on Edmonton neighbourhoods. Investing in quality disaster mitigation and adaptation infrastructure will reduce risk, increase resilience, and better protect Edmonton and its residents.
EPCOR, an essential services company based in Edmonton, will implement this project.
By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country’s economy, increasing the resiliency of our communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.
“The federal government’s support is critical in helping Edmonton strengthen its resiliency against the impacts of climate change. EPCOR has an ongoing commitment to ensure communities in Edmonton are protected from the risks of major storm events. This funding will play a major role in bolstering flood mitigation programs and protecting neighbourhoods, businesses and residences,” said Stuart Lee, president, EPCOR.
Featured image: (L to R) Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance; Amarjeet Sohi, Mayor of Edmonton; and Stuart Lee, EPCOR. (Government of Canada)
