The District of Kitimat is excited that groundwork has begun for a new Water Treatment Plant.

This project will use a combination of water conditioning, sand filtration and UV disinfection to treat Kitimat’s municipal water using modern methods. Once operational, it will reduce the likelihood of future Water Quality Advisories.

Currently, Kitimat’s water treatment process is effective but requires upgrades. During seasonal high waters in the Kitimat River, the source water can become filled with sediments which the existing system has difficulty overcoming in those moments. This typically results in Water Quality Advisories or Boil Water Notices in some circumstances.

“Starting the groundwork for this project gets us closer to having a modernized water system and once complete residents will see far fewer disruptions throughout the year,” says Kitimat Mayor Phil Germuth.

This project is funded in part by the Government of Canada, as well mix of allocation from the municipal budget, provincial funding provided through the Resource Benefits Alliance, and borrowing capacity through the Municipal Finance Authority.

The new facility will be located at the north end of Dyke Road, adjacent to Haisla Boulevard and close to where the existing water treatment building is now.

The work to construct this new plant has been awarded to Wildstone Construction Ltd., and initial site work has begun.

“Wildstone Construction Ltd. is pleased to begin work with the District of Kitimat on the Kitimat Water Treatment Plant, a critical infrastructure project that will enhance the community’s water system and contribute to long-term sustainability,” says Wildstone’s Project Manager Marcel Olsthoorn. “With an appreciation for the Northern communities we serve, Wildstone remains committed to supporting local employment and skills development throughout the construction process.”

Information about this project is available at Get Involved Kitimat at getinvolved.kitimat.ca/water-project.

You can learn more about Wildstone on their website at wildstone.com.