The Town of Smithers is receiving more than $6.2 million in new infrastructure funds, the province announced on March 27.
The release of funds follows the announcement of the Northern Capital and Planning Grant on Feb. 16, which provides funding for infrastructure and long-term planning to four regional districts, including Bulkley-Nechako.
Smithers will receive a total of $6,218,000, which the town can use for an immediate infrastructure need, save for future use, or leverage to secure other sources of funding.
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“These funds comes at an important time as Town Council and staff put in place plans to ensure the long-term sustainability of our town’s infrastructure,” Mayor Taylor Bachrach announced on Facebook.
Bachrach told Interior News that council hasn’t yet deliberated how best to use the funds, however, “the state of our water and sewer infrastructure is top of mind these days, as is the need to replenish our financial reserves,” he said.
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“Whatever we do, we’ll be thinking of the long-term best interest of the community.”
Combined, communities in Bulkley-Nechako are receiving $37.5 million to help address infrastructure needs.
karissa.gall@blackpress.ca
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