Province providing critical water infrastructure funding in Deseronto and Bancroft

Hastings-Lennox and Addington MPP Ric Bresee announced funding for two more communities through the province’s Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program’s Health and Safety Water Stream on Wednesday.

Deseronto is receiving $2.7 million to replace its water tower.

“The town is trying to expand and we’re looking at more housing availability. And one of the absolute necessities for that, of course, is a sustainable and a stable water source. So having a new water tower in Deseronto will mean a lot towards their ability to continue to grow, to continue to add the housing that we so desperately need all across the province.”

“We are very happy to receive this grant to help replace the existing standpipe with a modern, durable, and-efficient water distribution point,” said Town of Deseronto Mayor Dan Johnston. “Investing in this infrastructure not only addresses our current challenges, but promotes community development by supporting our businesses, schools, and emergency services, fostering a safer and more prosperous community for us all.”

In Bancroft, a $2.2 million investment will be used to rehabilitate the water level control dam on the York River.

“We’re really excited to see this one proceed because it’s been one that we’ve been aware of the challenge of it for a couple years. And this is about safety for the whole region and the potential flooding that could happen if that structure isn’t upgraded.”

“On behalf of Council and the residents of Bancroft, I want to express our sincere appreciation to the Province of Ontario and the Ministry of Infrastructure for their significant investment toward the $3-million rehabilitation of the Town-owned York River overflow water control structure,” said Town of Bancroft Mayor Paul Jenkins. “This dam is a vital piece of municipal infrastructure, helping to maintain consistent river levels that support residential use, recreation, and the overall enjoyment of the York River in our municipality and throughout the region. It also plays a critical role in flood management by safely directing excess spring runoff through the river system in a controlled manner, protecting residences along the banks of the river in Bancroft and further downstream. This important rehabilitation project strengthens the long-term resilience of our community and allows Bancroft to continue improving essential infrastructure while reducing financial pressures on local taxpayers.”

Bresee says six municipalities in his riding are receiving a total of $29 million under the funding stream.