From roads and buildings, to wastewater systems – strong asset management is key to building stronger communities. Municipalities of all sizes need tools and resources to make evidence-based decisions that support long-term asset management and build a healthier, safer and more prosperous future for all Canadians.
That is why the Government of Canada is investing over $1.68 million in 38 Alberta communities and $1.6 million in 36 British Columbia communities through the Municipal Asset Management Program (MAMP), delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM). As Canada moves toward a strong recovery, these projects will help communities make data-driven decisions about key infrastructure, and ensure long-term infrastructure performance.
“The projects delivered through the Municipal Asset Management Program ensure municipalities have the tools necessary to make well-informed decisions now and for years to come,” said Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities. “Ultimately, municipalities will be able to extend the lifespan of critical infrastructure and realize long-term savings. We’re proud to invest in infrastructure asset management projects that help Alberta communities grow, strengthen their local economy and improve residents’ quality of life.”
“Across the country, communities of all sizes are gearing up for life post-pandemic,” added Joanne Vanderheyden, president, Federation of Canadian Municipalities. “They’re working to enhance their infrastructure and natural assets so they can continue to have sustainable and reliable services to improve residents’ quality of life. Ensuring local governments have the right tools to make sound asset management decisions is one way we can help drive Canada’s economic recovery.”
With funding from MAMP:
- The Town of Oyen, the Village of Consort, the Town of Coronation, the Village of Carbon, the Village of Linden, the Village of Rockyford, the Village of Hussar, the Village of Standard, and the Town of Drumheller will advance asset management practices under the collaborative project: Palliser Regional Asset Management Project. This project will provide continued geographic information system (GIS) expertise, support and training to ensure the investment will continue to be valuable for years to come and give the municipalities the opportunity to improve their asset management practices.
- The City of Spruce Grove will collect inventory data, develop inspection templates, collect condition data and build the life cycle plan for facilities assets.
- With guidance, expertise and direction from a consultant, the City of Cold Lake administration will utilize the NAMS Canada training skills acquired to work on completing the asset management plans for water, sanitary, storm and road assets.
“As we continue to weather the pandemic and plan for our economic recovery, infrastructure that supports healthy and resilient communities, where residents can thrive, is more important than ever,” said Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism, Associate Minister of Finance and MP for Edmonton Centre. “From roads to buildings to wastewater management systems, this investment will allow Alberta’s municipalities to be proactive and strategic when they plan for the long-term services to their residents, so that everyone can benefit.”
- Skawahlook First Nation will develop an asset management strategy and collect infrastructure data.
- The District of Squamish will improve the existing asset management plan by integrating newly collected data as well as considering risk and levels of service, to build a long-term financial model.
- The Township of Spallumcheen will install a system to combine geographic information system (GIS) data, manage data, visualize important asset management information, and foster information sharing.
“The Municipal Asset Management Program ensures municipalities and townships across Canada are empowered and supported to grow their communities,” said Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and MP for Vancouver South. “This investment means towns in British Columbia will be able to make evidence-based decisions for the future by having the technology and resources through the Municipal Asset Management Program.”
Featured image: (Town of Drumheller)
