Five communities in the Kootenays will receive grants for disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation projects.
“B.C. is on the front lines of climate change, and investing in disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation has never been more critical,” said Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness.
“We are taking action to build stronger, safer communities that are better prepared to protect people for generations to come.”
The B.C. government says 39 communities across the province will get a cut of the $19 million Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF) grant.
“As climate change accelerates, the impacts of natural disasters on our communities are rapidly increasing,” said Trish Mandewo, president and councillor of the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM).
“Programs like the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund help support local governments as they prepare the infrastructure needed to help B.C. residents withstand emergencies. The variety of projects approved across the province gives a hint of the magnitude of work ahead of us to continue building resilient communities.”
The City of Cranbrook was the largest grant recipient across the province, with $5 million going towards the Gold Creek Dam Replacement Project.
“This project represents a significant milestone for Cranbrook as it secures our community’s water supply for generations,” said Mayor Wayne Price.
“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.”
You can see the local projects set to receive funding below:
- Canal Flats – $400,000 – Phase 1 dike improvements.
- Cranbrook – $5 million – Gold Creek dam replacements.
- Creston – $150,000 – Hazard, risk and vulnerability assessment.
- Invermere – $810,000 – Toby Creek dike upgrades.
- Nelson – $95,280 – Community preparation for extreme temperatures.
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