Federal and provincial governments pair up to upgrade West Kelowna infrastructure

The Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia are each putting $454,015 into a new West Kelowna project, through the Small Communities Fund.

Work is ready to kick off on the replacement of the Horizon Village Lift Station—which has a total cost of over $1.3 million—and is an important part of the City of West Kelowna’s sanitary sewer system.

The City of West Kelowna will pay for the cost not covered by the federal and provincial governments.

Crews and equipment are scheduled to begin work May 16, starting with removing the old lift station and installing three new energy efficient pumps, a new control systems building, emergency storage capacity and a backup power supply.

"As the City of West Kelowna continues to grow and attract new residents, infrastructure must grow along with it,” said B.C. premier Christy Clark. “The replacement of the Horizon Village Lift Station will provide additional storage and a backup energy supply to reduce the risk of wastewater discharge in case of emergency. It's partnerships like this across all levels of government that promote core community values and provide benefits to all citizens."

The new lift station, which serves more than 3,000 residents, will improve system reliability and efficiency in the service.

Construction is expected to be completed before October 31.

“The Government of Canada is pleased to support the reliability of wastewater services to West Kelowna residents,” said Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities in Canada. “Our infrastructure plan in Budget 2016 will see us invest in more projects like this to create good jobs, support a clean growth economy and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.”

City of West Kelowna Mayor Doug Findlater said the city happy to adapt the infrastructure needed to supply the growing community with what it needs.