Cumberland’s Wastewater Upgrades Reach Major Milestone
Posted on
The Village of Cumberland is celebrating the completion of critical upgrades to their wastewater treatment system that will protect the environment and meet provincial requirements.
The Wastewater Upgrades (Phase 1) include improvements to the current lagoon system, such as the addition of UV disinfection, improvements to wastewater screening, changes to flow paths at the lagoons and installation of extra aeration. It also includes an operator’s building, improved instrumentation and site security.
The new system components are now fully operational. These upgrades will meet and exceed provincial and federal regulatory treatment requirements.
“The importance of this work for the long-term health of our communities and the environment we all depend on cannot be overstated,” said Mayor Vickey Brown. “We are so glad to see this unique-to-Cumberland solution in operation and working well after years of hard work by many people and guidance from the K’ómoks First Nation, who patiently travelled on this journey with us.”
“These upgrades mean the people of Cumberland will benefit from cleaner environments and more reliable wastewater system,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “The Province is happy to support projects like this that strengthen community well-being and long-term sustainability. This is an important milestone for a village that continues to plan thoughtfully for its future.”
“Investing in modern wastewater infrastructure is essential for protecting local ecosystems and supporting growing communities,” said Will Greaves, Member of Parliament for Victoria. “Our government is proud to partner with the Village of Cumberland to support upgrades that deliver long‑term environmental benefits to the community.”
Construction on the upgrades began in 2023 and was the result of long-term wastewater planning completed for the Village. Phase 2 of the upgrades – which will include wetland enhancements, seismic upgrades and Maple Creek improvements – are in environmental assessment and permitting processes.
The Wastewater Upgrades Project is made possible by funding awarded to the Village through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program – Environmental Quality, with more than $3.8 million provided by the federal government and more than $3.2 million by the provincial government, as well as additional funding from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Green Municipal Fund. An additional $2.5 million was awarded from the Canada Community Building Fund to support Phase 2 of the wastewater system upgrades.
To keep informed of the project progress, visit cumberland.ca/wastewaterupgrades.
Search again