An application process for federal and BC government funding for community green infrastructure projects opened on May 31.
The Green Infrastructure - Environmental Quality program is one of the sources of money City of Powell River needs for construction of the new wastewater treatment plant in Townsite.
But, there was a surprise. The $243 million fund is not as big as expected, according to city director of infrastructure Tor Birtig, and not enough for the $49 million the city hopes to get.
“What I was told was that the total was going to be more like $900 million available,” said Birtig. “But this one, what they're stating is $243 million. I want to find out what happened to the other $650 million.”
Birtig said the $67 million wastewater treatment plant project, the largest in Powell River’s history, would be approximately 20 per cent of the total grant. There are municipalities across BC with competing projects.
Birtig said he is not worrying yet. He added that he expects this funding process will be followed by other opportunities in the future.
“I’m still trying to get some answers on the extent of the program,” said Birtig. “What it states in the literature is that it's the initial intake. My thoughts are there are some subsequent ones that will be coming but I'm not aware of timing.”
As for significantly cutting costs on plant construction and conveyance routes from Wildwood and Westview, Birtig said he did not see it being possible other than for aesthetics, which could be completed at a later date.
City council has approved the processing technology, conveyance and natural integration theme for the look of the plant and is awaiting the final detailed design from its contractor, Associated Engineering.
The application deadline for the Green Infrastructure - Environmental Quality program is August 29. Birtig said the city will likely submit that month.
