Feds fund Edmonton infrastructure aimed at reducing flood risk and damage

Edmonton is receiving more than $22 million from the federal Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF) for infrastructure projects to reduce flood risk and damage to the city.

Infrastructure Canada said the funds will help cover improvements at the city’s Gold Bar Wastewater Treatment Plant, including three new backwater prevention outfall gates to prevent river water from flowing back into the wastewater treatment plant during storms, and a flood barrier along the northern edge of the plant to minimize flooding risks.

Across the city, automatic gates and sensors will be added to 117 stormwater wet ponds, transitioning them into smart ponds capable of detecting and managing water levels and flow.

The city contracted Edmonton-based EPCOR to carry out the projects.

Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi said in a news release the city welcomes the DMAF funding.

“Edmonton has world class drinking water, and this funding to protect critical infrastructure will help ensure we continue to have a reliable supply of clean and safe drinking water,” Sohi said.