Abbotsford highlighting need for more work to mitigate flood threat through the Fraser Valley

ABBOTSFORD — The fight against flooding in the Fraser Valley extends beyond national borders, with recent meetings highlighting the collaborative efforts between municipal leaders in both Canada and the United States.

In the wake of the devastating 2021 flood, Abbotsford Mayor Ross Siemens has intensified the city’s push for enhanced flood infrastructure, reaching out to higher government leaders. The provincial government has allocated $76.6 million toward upgrading the Barrowtown Pump Station, a critical step in bolstering flood resiliency.

Yet, the flood threat transcends knows no borders, as evidenced by the inundation of the Nooksack River in Sumas, Washington, which contributed significantly to the 2021 disaster. Recognizing the shared challenge, Mayor Siemens engaged in virtual discussions with Sumas Mayor Bruce Bosch and welcomed U.S. Consul General Jim DeHart to City Hall.

A news blog released by the City of Abbotsford, reports the discussions centered on flood infrastructure and the important role of cross-border trade and travel. Siemens and Bosch found common ground in recounting the impacts of the flood and emphasized the need of fostering relations among neighbors.