en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Sylvan Lake Regional Water/Wastewater Commission announced that the Government of Alberta has provided a total of $18.4 million in funding through the Water for Life program to complete the final phase of the regional wastewater system serving the Sylvan Lake area.

This latest grant of $5,636,038 supplements the remaining provincial funding needed to complete the final phase of the system. Combined with a previous investment of $12.7 million, this funding will help the Commission connect the Town of Eckville, the Summer Village of Half Moon Bay, and parts of Lacombe County, realizing the regional wastewater system plan initiated over two decades ago. The funding was approved through Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors, with support from Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors Devin Dreeshen and Minister of Finance Jason Nixon.

The final phase of the project is expected to cost $20.4 million, and compared to alternative options, this approved route is projected to save approximately $20 million in construction costs. The expanded system is scheduled to be operational by the end of 2027, providing a reliable and cost-effective wastewater treatment solution for the region, protecting local aquifers and drinking water, supporting the long-term health of Sylvan Lake, and underpinning future development in central Alberta.

Commission Chair Mike Pashak welcomed the announcement. On behalf of the Commission and its member municipalities, he expressed gratitude to Minister Dreeshen, Minister Nixon, and the Government of Alberta for their financial support. Pashak stated that this investment brings lasting benefits to the entire region, providing an affordable wastewater solution, protecting drinking water sources, supporting future growth, and ultimately realizing the regional vision shared by municipalities and the provincial government for many years.