The provincial government is allocating over $12.3 million to support the construction of new homes.
This funding is part of the first round of investments under the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund, a $970 million initiative aimed at helping municipalities across the province develop, repair, and expand essential water infrastructure.
The investment will directly benefit three municipalities in the region: Bluewater, Goderich, and South Bruce.
In Bluewater, the expansion of the Bayfield Wastewater Treatment Facility will receive $8.3 million. This project is expected to pave the way for the construction of 507 new homes. The Town of Goderich will benefit from $3.2 million in funding to increase water supply capacity at its water treatment plant, enabling the development of 1,750 homes. Meanwhile, the Municipality of South Bruce will see $765,000 directed towards upsizing sanitary sewers on Kliest, Dietz, and Elora Streets, which will support the construction of 559 homes.
Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson emphasized the importance of these investments, noting that the expansion and enhancement of water and wastewater treatment facilities are critical to meeting the housing needs of rural Ontario.
Paul Klopp, Mayor of Bluewater, praised the government for its commitment to rural growth, noting that the funding for the Bayfield Wastewater Treatment Facility expansion is crucial for the community’s future.
"Being part of a rural council, we appreciate the province of Ontario supporting growth in our rural communities through grants like the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund (HEWSF). With the help of the Minister of Rural Affairs and our MPP, Lisa Thompson, the province is putting words into action by awarding the residents of Bluewater with $8,347,185.00 through HEWSF in support of expanding the Bayfield Wastewater Treatment Facility. This funding is paramount to supporting growth in the Municipality of Bluewater and providing much needed housing for families and individuals choosing to make Bluewater home," Kloop said.
Goderich Mayor Trevor Bazinet acknowledged the importance of the investment in the town’s water system, which will not only improve infrastructure but also support the town’s growth.
"I am pleased that the Province of Ontario has recognized the need for an increase in supply capacity of the Goderich Water Treatment Plant by providing $3.2 million dollars in funding under the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund," he said. "The outcome of this project will not only enhance the Town’s water system, but it will also promote growth and enable housing in our community. On behalf of Goderich Town Council, I would like to thank the Province of Ontario and MPP Thompson for the ongoing collaboration, investment and commitment to the Town of Goderich."
South Bruce Mayor Mark Goetz also welcomed the funding, which he said would enable the municipality to add nearly 600 new homes, contributing to local revitalization efforts.
“We are thrilled to receive $765,644 through the province’s Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund. The funding has enabled the Municipality to further local revitalization efforts by adding a potential 559 homes to the community," Goetz said.