This project is but one example of the commitment made by governments to protect the environment, strengthen the Island economy and improve the quality of life for residents. This project will create local jobs and enhance local facilities and services, at a time when the need for economic stimulus is greatest.

“In these challenging economic times, the Government of Canada is working with our partners to create jobs and build stronger and brighter futures for the people of Prince Edward Island and their communities,” said Minister Ashfield. “Our federal investment in this phase of Souris infrastructure renewal plan will result in modern, greener, world-class infrastructure, which is the foundation of sustainable, long-term economic growth.”

This project, considered to be Phase II of the Souris water and sanitary sewer renewal plan, involves the replacement of existing water main and related infrastructure, as well as existing sanitary sewer main infrastructure, on Main Street from Union to MacPhee Avenues. This will result in improved water and sanitary sewer distribution systems that utilize modern technology to replace aging pipelines with more secure piping systems. In addition, since the upgrades will address the potential for breaks in the sewer main, the chance of untreated sewage leaking into surrounding groundwater will be minimized. Phase I, currently ongoing, involves similar work between Beach and Union Avenues.

“To date, 17 BCF projects have been approved with a total cost of almost $22 million. We continue to work hard to address the infrastructure needs of Islanders,” said Minister Bertram. “Souris Main Street is the primary gateway into the Town. Improving the sewer, water and road conditions of this corridor, which includes many established businesses, is essential to ensuring the Town’s sustainability and the high quality of services provided to their residents.”

To complete this $930,000 project, the federal and provincial governments will provide up to two thirds of the funding for eligible project costs – up to $310,000 each – while the municipal government will cover the remainder. Funding is contingent on completion of all contractual agreements.

“We're extremely pleased with the infrastructure projects that have been coming – and continue to come – our way,” said Mayor Reid. “The support of the federal and provincial governments makes a huge difference in our community. We could not do what we do without their support.”

This project is one of many across the province that will get underway quickly thanks to a joint federal-provincial investment. Together with municipal contributions, the total investment in local infrastructure improvements in Prince Edward Island will exceed $66 million. The Governments of Canada and Prince Edward Island have taken the necessary steps to advance projects and to flow money faster for targeted infrastructure projects in Island communities over the 2009 and 2010 construction seasons.

For more information, please visit www.buildingcanada.gc.ca or www.gov.pe.ca/go.