CANADA AND SASKATCHEWAN INVEST IN SASKATOON

Important water infrastructure projects and tourism to receive funding

The MP for Saskatoon-Rosetown-Biggar, Kelly Block, along with Municipal Affairs Minister Jeremy Harrison and Saskatoon Mayor Donald Atchison today announced that three projects will receive infrastructure funding by the Government of Canada and the Government of Saskatchewan.

"This government is partnering with municipalities and provinces to fund infrastructure projects that will create jobs," said Block. "The water reservoir expansion and the flood control project will increase access to safe drinking water and contribute to a healthier and cleaner environment by reducing the amount of untreated wastewater. Furthermore, the Destination Centre in Saskatoon will showcase artistic and cultural activities, and contribute to increasing the number of tourists in the region."

"Our provincial government continues to move forward, building on the economic momentum in Saskatchewan," Harrison said. "These major projects promote tourism, provide safe drinking water and control flooding. Working together, we are helping ensure the people of Saskatoon benefit and that Saskatchewan is ready for growth."

"We are absolutely delighted to partner with the federal and provincial governments in making this significant investment in Saskatoon," Atchison said. "The water reservoir expansion brings much-needed capacity to our water system, to ensure our residents continue to receive the highest quality water. And the flood control funding will enhance the steps we've taken to keep our citizens' homes safe and secure. The Destination Centre will be a focal point at River Landing, attracting both residents and visitors alike. Together these investments will not only protect our environment and stimulate our local economy, but they will also improve the quality of life in our city."

The Government of Canada is setting aside up to one-third of the eligible costs of the Water Reservoir project, to a maximum federal contribution of $7 million. The Government of Saskatchewan has also committed $7 million under the program. The City of Saskatoon has committed to providing funding in support of this project. The total estimated cost of the Water Reservoir is $21,437,000.

As for the Flood Control project, the Government of Canada is setting aside up to one-third of the eligible costs of the project, to a maximum federal contribution of $2,525,852. The Government of Saskatchewan has also committed $2,525,852 under the program. The City of Saskatoon has committed to providing funding in support of this project. The total estimated cost of the Flood Control project is $7,750,000.

For the Destination Centre, the Government of Canada is setting aside up to one-third of the eligible costs of the project, to a maximum federal contribution of $13.02 million. The Government of Saskatchewan has also committed $13.02 million under the program. The City of Saskatoon and partners have also committed to providing funding in support of this project. The total estimated cost of the Destination Centre is $51 million.

Federal financial support for these projects will be provided through the Building Canada Fund - Major Infrastructure Component. It is conditional on federal project reviews, the successful completion of any environmental assessment requirements, the remaining costs of the projects being fully secured, and the signing of contribution agreements for the projects.

Canada and Saskatchewan are working together to create jobs and boost the economy, while making significant investments that help communities improve their infrastructure. Both governments have agreed to work together to ensure that these funds are delivered quickly and efficiently.

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For more information, contact:

Chris Hilton
Office of the Honourable Rob Merrifield
Ottawa
Phone: 613-991-0700

Jeff Welke
Municipal Affairs
Regina
Phone: 306-536-1185