The 60 million dollar upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant in Grande Prairie are still on track to be done by next fall.
Peace River MP Chris Warkentin got a look at progress this morning, and says it’s remarkable that an expansion of that size can be done while the plant is still in operation.
“It’s huge, but it’s also quite a program to be able to continue to have a useful infrastructure while the renovations and the expansions are ongoing, so really an incredible feat.”
The second phase of upgrades includes new technology and equipment to improve treatment and capacity, as well as a new power generation system that will use energy from the landfill to power all facilities on site.
Warkentin says its also being expanded in anticipation of growth in our region.
“They do have the ability to add on once this is fully implemented. They have left room for expansion even within the capacity that they’re building, so it is good news for Grande Prairie; it’s good news the region in that it will continue to allow our region to grow and expand.”
The federal government’s Building Canada Fund is helping cover up to $10 million of the cost, which reduces the impact on ratepayers.