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New water-treatment system in Abbotsford

New well and water-treatment system coming to Abbotsford

Sep 14, 2022 | 2:42 PM

ABBOTSFORD — A new well and water-treatment system will be coming to the city of Abbotsford, thanks to a $62 million investment made by the province.

Nathan Cullen, minister of municipal affairs, said this will also help ensure a safe water source during extreme weather events.

“This project will create climate resilience by helping protect people, sustain public health services and keep businesses operating during these ever-increasing climate disasters,” said Cullen.

Upgrades and additions to the Abbotsford drinking water system will mean water reliability and safety for Abbotsford, Mission, and the Matsqui First Nation, as well as homes, a regional cancer facility, senior care homes, farms, and agricultural processing.

Mayor Henry Braun said he is grateful for the significant investment made by the province to facilitate clean drinking water.

“A more reliable and resilient water source is one of our community’s most critical infrastructure needs, and we are thankful to be receiving support for this vital project,” said Braun.

The current water source is vulnerable to climate-related events, such as floods or wildfires, and was compromised during the November 2021 floods, which caused 85% of Abbotsford’s water supply to be offline.

Pam Alexis, MLA for Abbotsford-Mission, said climate resiliency is essential for health and safety and for peace of mind for all residents.

“We know the damage that atmospheric rivers can wreak, and by tackling these climate threats head on, Abbotsford and the surrounding area will be better prepared for the future,” said Alexis.

The project includes the installation of approximately 12 new wells; the construction of a water-treatment plant; and a pump station to tie into the existing regional system to bring the new water source to the community.

The Abbotsford Mission Water Sewer Commission operates the drinking water system, which serves the cities of Abbotsford and Mission, the Matsqui First Nation, and the Stave-Cedar connection in the Fraser Valley Regional District.

The budget for the Abbotsford Drinking Water Resilience Project is $84.4 million. The remainder of the funding will come from the Abbotsford Mission Water Sewer Commission.