Campbell River to build independent drinking water supply system

The city of Campbell River in Canada has secured a $12.5m funding boost from BC Hydro to build an independent drinking water supply system.

The money will cover 75% of the projected cost of the project, which will see the construction of an alternative water supply system to the current BC Hydro penstocks.

City Council liaison to BC Hydro Councillor Andy Adams said that the agreement between BC Hydro and the city is of great importance to the citizens and neighbouring community partners.

"The funding provides a solid foundation for us to build on as we work toward the best long-term solution for our water supply," Adams said.

The city will look to finalise options, costs and timelines for the construction of a new water intake from John Hart Lake within 2012.

The proposed new intake system will route raw water directly from John Hart Lake to the existing water treatment plant.

"The city has always been a strong supporter of the John Hart project and the significant economic opportunities, investment and job creation this will bring," Adams added.

The funding agreement is the result of discussions that BC Hydro and the city have had since 2011, as the city looks to build a water supply system capable of servicing its future needs.