Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Hamilton held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate completion of the Woodward Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade project last week.
“This project is a testament to what can be accomplished when all three levels of government work together and invest in shared goals. I am proud to be here today and celebrate this major environmental project, knowing the positive impact this will have for Hamiltonians in the years to come,” said Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath.
The completion is a “significant milestone” in the restoration of Hamilton Harbour, a designated Area of Concern (AOC) under the Canada-U.S. Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement.
“Now, for the first time in over 100 years, wastewater will no longer be the greatest source of phosphorus to Hamilton Harbour,” said Kristin O’Connor, coordinator, Hamilton Harbour Remedial Action Plan. “It is exciting to reach this important milestone in improving water quality.
“This upgrade brings us closer to realizing the Remedial Action Plan vision of Hamilton Harbour being a vibrant centrepiece of our community.”
The City of Hamilton’s Clean Harbour Program manages the largest public investments in the Hamilton Harbour AOC in partnership with the Hamilton Harbour Remedial Action Plan. With the monumental achievements of the Woodward Upgrades Project, the City of Hamilton is supporting progress towards the goal of delisting Hamilton Harbour as an area of concern.
“Essential local infrastructure like the Woodward Avenue Wastewater Treatment Plant is vital to building healthy and resilient communities,” said Kinga Surma, Ontario Minister of Infrastructure. “The upgrades to the plant will help protect the health of the community and environment by reducing wastewater pollution, improving water quality, and enhancing Hamilton’s ability to better manage wet weather conditions.
“We look forward to continuing to work with our municipal and federal partners to promote the sustainability and growth of Ontario’s communities, today and into the future.”
The project was awarded $100 million each from the Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario, with the remainder funded by the city.
