Improvements to the Regional District of Nanaimo’s French Creek Pollution Control Centre (FCPCC) will improve secondary wastewater treatment for more efficient and reliable services to residents, after a joint investment of more than $25.4 million from the federal and provincial governments, along with the Regional District of Nanaimo.
“When we invest in the improvement of essential services, we are investing in healthier, more sustainable communities. Upgrading secondary treatment in the Regional District of Nanaimo will ensure residents have access to efficient wastewater services, while minimizing the impact on the environment. We will continue investing in projects that directly benefit communities across the country,” said Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities.
The FCPC treats wastewater from approximately 29,000 homes and businesses in local communities, Including septage from septic systems, and wastewater from properties with holding tanks.
“Qualicum Beach, Parksville, and surrounding communities hold a natural beauty for residents and visitors alike. Greater popularity means increased demand on public infrastructure, upgrades to improve water treatment are more important than ever. That’s why all levels of government are supporting more efficient services while reducing the impact to the environment,” said Anne Kang, B.C. Minister of Municipal Affairs.
The project will upgrade the existing FCPCC by building and combined treatment units, including a bioreactor and clarifier, to improve secondary wastewater treatment and reduce odor for French Creek, Qualicum Beach, Parksville, and neighbouring communities. It will also increase the treatment plant’s capacity by approximately 30% to meet anticipated population growth, address complaints through improved odour control, and increase the Centre’s useful life until 2040.
“We thank the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia for this significant investment in the RDN’s French Creek Pollution Control Centre Expansion and Odour Control Upgrade Project. This grant enables us to make critical infrastructure upgrades that will meet growing service demands in our communities while also helping to protect the environment through effective and efficient wastewater treatment,” said Vanessa Craig, Chair of the Regional District of Nanaimo.
The federal government is investing $10,198,744 in this project through the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The provincial government is investing $8,498,103 and the Regional District of Nanaimo is contributing $6,800,012.
Featured image: (Regional District of Nanaimo)