News Release

GAGETOWN (GNB) – A $1.1 million storm drain system upgrade was announced today in Gagetown under the Small Communities Fund.

“This upgrade will redesign and replace the municipality’s storm drain system to reduce flooding and renew transportation infrastructure in the core of the village,” said Memramcook-Tantramar MLA Bernard LeBlanc. “The village and the province are working in partnership with the federal government to support the sustainability of this community and jobs.”

LeBlanc attended the announcement on behalf of Environment and Local Government Minister Brian Kenny.

“The federal government is committed to building public infrastructure for the 21st century,” said New Brunswick Southwest MP Karen Ludwig. “Green infrastructure, such as clean drinking water, renewable energy and waste management systems, is critical to developing sustainable, livable communities. We are proud to be investing in this project, which will have a positive and lasting impact on the quality of life for all Gagetown residents.”

Ludwig attended the event on behalf of Amarjeet Sohi, federal minister of infrastructure and communities.

“We are pleased to work with our government partners to bring this important improvement to our community,” said Gagetown Mayor Mike Blaney. “The repairs will upgrade our storm drain system and will also help to revitalize the road going through the heart of our community, which will benefit our local businesses and create a more welcoming village centre for our residents and visitors.”

The project includes replacing all existing sub-surface storm drains in the downtown and main tourism area; building three larger storm water outlets; and creating a diversion pond. Once complete, the infrastructure is expected to reduce the amount of properties at risk of flooding. The provincial and federal governments and the Village of Gagetown are each contributing one-third of the total investment.

Under the Small Communities Fund, the provincial and federal governments are jointly investing about $79 million in infrastructure during the next 10 years. Each project receives matching funding from the community, for a total investment of more than $118 million. This is the first round of investments under the fund.

Forty-three projects in New Brunswick communities will receive funding for these projects, which contribute to a cleaner environment and economic growth.