The Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario marked the start of construction for the new $25.5-million Red Rock Wastewater Treatment Plant, which will improve water quality in the region.
The Government of Ontario is contributing more than $17 million, or two-thirds of the total project cost, while the Government of Canada is contributing over $8.5 million under the New Building Canada Fund – National and Regional Projects.
“The Water Pollution Control Plant will ensure that Red Rock and Nipigon Bay residents have access to modern and reliable wastewater services for years to come,” said Minister Patty Hajdu, MP for Thunder Bay-Superior North. “This important project will help keep our waterways clean and our environment healthy for generations.”
Nipigon Bay is identified as an Area of Concern under the Canada-United States Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement due to historic impacts on water quality, fish populations, and fish habitat. Nipigon Bay is also identified as an Area of Concern under the Canada-Ontario Agreement on Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health 2014.
“This new wastewater treatment project in Red Rock will benefit the people and the natural environment, protecting what matters most,” said Ontario Minister of Infrastructure Monte McNaughton. “It’s the right investment that will directly improve water quality on Nipigon Bay as well as drive economic development here in Northern Ontario.”
This new treatment plant in the Town of Red Rock will help protect and restore water quality and ecosystem health in the Nipigon Bay Area of Concern.
“For the Township of Red Rock, this investment will ensure our community complies with current provincial water quality regulations and new federal rules that come into effect in 2030,” said Mayor of Red Rock Township Gary Nelson. “A new reliable wastewater system will ensure the township can accommodate future growth and draw more businesses to the area.”
