PERTH-ANDOVER (GNB) – The provincial government is evaluating a proposal on flood adaptation submitted by the Village of Perth-Andover in December.

“Our government is committed to protecting the economies of rural communities and partnering with the federal government o‎n combating climate change,” said Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Donald Arseneault, who is also minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation. “After four devastating floods in 41 years, it is clear we need to do more to adapt to a changing climate in this community, and we are committed to working with the municipality and its residents to do so.”

In its submission, the village proposed:

  • rerouting and raising Route 105 and Route 109 to ensure the village can maintain transportation links at anticipated maximum flood levels;
  • redeveloping the downtown core of the Perth portion of the village to raise it above anticipated maximum flood levels;
  • opening two new potential development areas in the Andover portion of the village;
  • constructing a replacement bridge,‎ either near the location of the current bridge or further upriver from Legion Street to the existing Route 109 alignment.

The government is considering and pricing initial phases of the proposal that would reroute roads, raise the Perth downtown, and undertake preliminary planning for a replacement bridge. Options that are agreeable to the provincial and municipal governments will be presented to the federal government if there is a clear interest from the broader community.

“The people of Perth-Andover have shown their resiliency in recovering from devastating floods and seeking long-term solutions for the community,” said Carleton-Victoria MLA Andrew Harvey. “Our government is working with them to ensure the future safety and viability of the community.”

Harvey attended for Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Bill Fraser.

06-04-17