Work on upgrades to the La Ronge water and sewage system could begin by next spring.
The federal and provincial governments recenlty announced over $23 million in funding for infrastructure projects in Saskatchewan.
That includes $2.8 million for upgrades to sewage pumping stations and the sewage treatment plant in La Ronge.
La Ronge Mayor Thomas Sierzycki says work has already been done on things like pre-design for the project.
“(It’s the) design aspect, ensuring that we’re ready for the development that will take place,” he says. “Come the spring — I’m expecting spring at this time — we’ll be moving forward with actual tenders and having people actually start the work. And the work will include upgrades to lift stations and the sewer plant so that gensets can be allocated in those resources.”
Sierzycki says having natural gas generators in place at lift stations and the water treatment facility will ensure water services continue in La Ronge during a power outage.
“The big thing is when the power does go out we’re still able to provide water and sewer services to our residents, which can be very important — especially in northern Saskatchewan,” he says. “In the past, we’ve had numerous days where we’ve had power outages. And that’s an important aspect for all emergency services, as well as hospital services and everyone living at home that require those services during those times.”
The remainder of the $4-million cost for the system upgrades will be covered by the Northern Municipal Trust Account and the Town of La Ronge.