Joint federal and provincial funding of $152 million for 20 infrastructure projects in central Alberta will help address community infrastructure needs.
In Drayton Valley, the funding will build a new Net-Zero Aquatic Facility, with an eight-lane pool, 25-metre lap pool, leisure pool, a lazy river, steam room, hot tub, and multi-purpose room. Even while the facility creates a new hub for fun and fitness in Drayton Valley, it will achieve a net-zero energy balance by using heat recovered from a nearby hockey arena. This renewable source of energy will produce zero harmful emissions and will significantly reduce long-term operating costs.
“This facility will benefit the entire Drayton Valley community, giving people of all ages a place to have fun, exercise, and develop an important life skill. The heating system, fueled with renewable energy, will contribute to lowering emissions,” said Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities. “Along with the 19 other important infrastructure projects across Central Alberta that we are announcing today, we are helping build a strong sustainable future. Canada’s Infrastructure plan invests in thousands of projects, creates jobs across Canada, and builds stronger communities.”
In Fort Saskatchewan, a new waste gas burner facility will benefit 13 area municipalities. The new facility, to be built by the Alberta Capital Region Wastewater Commission, will burn off more than 99 per cent of the excess biogas used to heat it, significantly reducing air pollutants while improving energy efficiency.
In Edmonton, the funding will expand and renovate the Knottwood Community League Centre and build the new Ridge Community League Skating Rink and Community Hall. The new and modernized facilities, with greatly improved accessibility, will allow more residents to enjoy sports, leisure activities and vibrant community gatherings.
The Government of Canada is investing over $82.3 million in these projects through the Green Infrastructure Stream, the Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure Stream, and the Rural and Northern Communities Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.
The Government of Alberta is contributing more than $69.7 million under Alberta’s Recovery Plan, which builds on economic strengths to attract investment and position the province for prosperity.
Click here to see the list of the 20 projects that received funding.