The City of Cranbrook has been awarded a $5 million grant to help fund the Gold Creek Dam replacement.
The grant comes from the Disaster Risk Reduction-Climate Adaptation funding stream of the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF).
City officials say the grant will be used to fully rebuild the century-old Gold Creek dam, which has experienced significant structural and is beyond its useful life.
“The new dam will not only resolve these structural issues but also greatly expand water storage capacity, easing water restrictions, supporting community growth, and enhancing resilience against climate change and natural disasters,” said city officials.
The project is expected to cost $14.25 million in total, with grant funding leaving Cranbrook to pay the remaining $9.25 million.
The CEPF comes from the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM), and funds projects that help local and Indigenous governments prepare for disasters and reduce hazards brought on by climate change.
“On behalf of the City and of Council, I want to thank both UBCM and the Province of British Columbia for their generous support of this vital project. Infrastructure renewal is such a challenge for municipalities right across Canada, and I cannot stress enough how important this funding, and this project is to Cranbrook,” said Mayor Wayne Price.
The grant will be split between two payments, with 50 per cent coming up front and the other half to be paid when the project is completed.
The dam replacement, final report and financial summary to the UCBM must be completed within two years.
“This project represents a significant milestone for Cranbrook, as it secures our community’s water supply for generations,” said Curtis Mummery, Manager of Roads and Infrastructure.
“Ensuring a reliable and resilient water system will empower Cranbrook to continue its growth and development while preparing for challenges posed by climate change. This is a proactive step to safeguard our future and maintain the essential resources our community relies on.”
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