Arthur’s long-awaited new wastewater treatment plant got a boost Tuesday with the announcement of a $750,000 federal Green Municipal Fund grant.
The announcement from the federal government and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities also includes the offer of a $5 million loan for the project which is expected to cost about $$20 million.
The project will go to tender as early as this fall, once final provincial approval is received. Among other things, the project will allow a lift of the development freeze now in the village.
Wellington North Mayor Andy Lennox said the community is desperate for new housing to accommodate the growing population. The upgrade will also help improve the quality of wastewater released into the Conestogo River.
Wellington North proposes to upgrade its lagoon-based plant over two phases, with an anticipated completion date by the end of 2025.
The Green Municipal Fund comes from the Government of Canada and delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.