The Town of Bridgewater is the latest community in Nova Scotia to get support from the province to upgrade its wastewater systems.

At an announcement hosted at the DesBrisay Museum Education Minister and local MLA Becky Druhan said the investments are part of the province’s strategy to help upgrade infrastructure needed for population growth.

Education Minister Becky Druhan and Bridgewater Mayor David Mitchell at an event announcing provincial support for the towns’ water systems. Photo: Pat Hirtle.

“It’s crucial that our communities have access to reliable water and wastewater services and that we work with our municipal counterparts to build a strong future for our province,” said Druhan. “Improving our water and wastewater infrastructure in Bridgewater and the surrounding area is a great step towards helping ensure a bright future for our communities.”

The province is contributing more than $3.19 million to the project, as is the Town of Bridgewater.

One of the upgrades will see the existing water mains at St. Phillips Street and Victoria Road connected to the ones on  North Park Street. This will mean improved water services for residents and better water flow for firefighters.

Additionally, the town will be installing new screening equipment for the town’s wastewater treatment plant that will improve the plant’s efficiency and overall treatment capacity.

The investment comes as welcome news according to Bridgewater Mayor David Mitchell who says the town has been dealing with capacity issues for years that have limited the developments they can approve.

“We’re thrilled that the Province of Nova Scotia is once again showing its confidence in the people of Bridgewater by investing in key infrastructure projects that will position our community for continued growth in the decades to come,” said Mitchell. “The St. Phillips Street project and wastewater treatment plant upgrades are critical steps on the journey to securing a sustainable future for our community.”

The funding from the province comes by way of the Municipal Capital Growth Program, a one-time $102-million investment in projects across Nova Scotia.

Similar announcements have been made in other communities around Nova Scotia in recent weeks, including projects in Chester and Yarmouth.