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A new grant program will help municipalities better protect their residents, property, and infrastructure from the effects of floods or droughts.
Municipalities, First Nations, and Metis Settlements province-wide may apply for funds from the Alberta Community Resilience Program for projects that protect critical municipal infrastructure from flooding and drought.
“We are committed to improving Alberta’s resilience when faced with floods and drought by providing the resources needed to protect our vulnerable communities. Our aim is to put effective mitigation solutions in place while respecting taxpayers’ dollars.”
Robin Campbell, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Resource Development
The cost-share program will direct $325 million to municipalities over the next three years for projects such as berms, dykes, and riverbank stabilization. Eligible projects may either protect municipal infrastructure such as public buildings, roads, or wastewater systems, enhance public safety, or improve evacuation times.
The grants will cover 90 per cent of project costs up to $3 million and 70 per cent of costs in excess of $3 million. Municipalities have until September 30 to apply for the first round of funding.
The Alberta Community Resilience Program is part of the Alberta government’s $600 million commitment announced April 29 at Alberta’s Watershed Management Symposium to fund high-priority flood mitigation projects to improve the province’s flood resiliency.
The Alberta Community Resilience Program follows the Flood Recovery Erosion Control (FREC) program to rebuild and reinforce river banks in flood-impacted communities, which has recently wrapped up. 160 projects were approved through FREC at a total cost of $201 million.
Canadajournal/Press Releases
