Premier Doug Ford was in Kenilworth Wednesday morning to announce $29 million will be split between a trio of projects in Wellington and Perth.
Ford was joined by Todd McCarthy, Acting Minister of Infrastructure, Perth-Wellington MPP Matthew Rae and local mayors, including Wellington North Mayor Andy Lennox.
The funding will be to expand and rehabilitate rural water infrastructure in Perth and Wellington counties.
"As part of our Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program, we're expanding and upgrading the Arthur wastewater treatment plant, the Drayton sewage [pumping station in Mapleton, as well as the Herbert Street sewage pumping station in West Perth and the reservoir in Perth East," Ford explained. "These investments will increase resilience during extreme weather events, protecting more than 5,500 homes in the region, and supporting the construction of hundreds more, to keep the dream of home ownership alive for the next generation of families."
Ford added that the funding is part of a $875 million investment in the Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program’s Health and Safety Water Stream (MHIP-HSWS).
"As we continue to navigate economic uncertainty and unwarranted U.S. tariffs, our government is protecting Ontario by investing in critical infrastructure that drives growth, creates jobs and strengthens communities," said Minister McCarthy. "Through our historic $4 billion Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program, we are giving municipalities and First Nations the tools they need to get shovels in the ground and build stronger communities. Our investments will deliver more homes, modernize aging water systems and lay the foundation for long-term prosperity across Ontario."
The funding breakdown is as follows:
Township of Wellington North — $26,097,500 to expand the Arthur Wastewater Treatment Plant and upgrade the associated forcemain, as well as replace and expand the Drayton Sewage Pumping Station in Mapleton, ensuring long-term service sustainability for 2,330 existing homes
The Municipality of West Perth — $2,053,125 for the Herbert Street Sewage Pumping Station, helping to sustain service for some 2,378 homes
The Township of Perth East — $675,250 for the Milverton Well Replacement and Reservoir Rehabilitation, supporting 850 homes with improved water security.
"Our government is making significant, long-term investments in rural infrastructure, including right here in Perth-Wellington," said MPP Rae. "This nearly $29 million commitment will strengthen water systems, improve community assets and unlock new housing opportunities across Wellington and Perth Counties, which will support economic growth and ensure we are protecting our communities for the next generation."
Mapleton Mayor Gregg Davidson, West Perth Mayor Walter McKenzie and Perth East Mayor Rhonda Ehgoetz were also in attendance at the announcement.
