The provincial government is investing more than $9.5 million in water infrastructure projects across Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound, funding upgrades aimed at improving drinking water systems and wastewater capacity in three local communities.
Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Paul Vickers announced the funding Monday in Owen Sound, saying the money will support essential municipal projects in Tara, Hanover, and Wiarton.
"Water infrastructure is an important part of the nuts-and-bolts that build communities," Vickers said. "Today’s funding demonstrates that we are here to support rural municipalities across this province with these important projects and expenses."
The $9,524,917 investment is being delivered through Ontario’s Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program, under the Health and Safety Water Stream. The province recently expanded that stream by $700 million, bringing its total to $875 million.
Funding will be directed to three projects in the region. The Municipality of Arran-Elderslie will receive nearly $1.85 million for the reconstruction of Elgin Avenue and Matilda Street in Tara. The Town of Hanover is receiving $1.75 million to replace two aging municipal wells, while the Town of South Bruce Peninsula will receive just under $5.93 million for a wastewater diversion project and the construction of a new pumping station in Wiarton.
Ontario’s Acting Minister of Infrastructure, Todd McCarthy, said the investments come at a time when economic pressures are increasing.
"As we continue to navigate economic uncertainty and unwarranted U.S. tariffs, our government is protecting Ontario by investing in critical infrastructure that drives growth, creates jobs and strengthens communities," McCarthy said. "Through our historic $4 billion Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program, we are giving municipalities and First Nations the tools they need to get shovels in the ground and build stronger communities."
The funding is part of Ontario’s broader $4 billion Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program, which is included in the province’s $220 billion capital plan. The province says the program is designed to support housing development by upgrading roads, water systems, and other core infrastructure.
