The legendary leaky Arrow Creek main water line is about to be relegated to the history books.
With virtually no opposition coming forward to prevent it, Town of Creston and Erickson voters have consented for Regional District of Central Kootenay to borrow $1,892,937 to replace the remainder of the century-old main water line. The final phases of the nine-year project will also see the addition of a second reservoir and construction of a clear well for the Arrow Creek Water Treatment and Supply Service system.
The RDCK sought the approval of eligible voters via the alternative approval process (AAP). Of the 4890 eligible electors, seven submitted electoral response forms indicating they opposed the borrowing. As less than 10 per cent of the eligible electors voted no, the AAP passed.
The Arrow Creek system provides water to residents in Erickson and the Town of Creston. This multi-phase project, initiated in 2008 has addressed the poor condition of the water main and sought to improve the quality and sustainability of the treatment system. The estimated total project cost for the last phase is $6,071,425.
“We will be able to ensure all residents have safe drinking water and a water main line that is sustainable into the future,” Tanya Wall, RDCK Director for Area B, said last week. “If not for the hard work and dedication of staff, the water commissions, the Town of Creston and Area B and C residents, this project would not have been successful. This is a huge investment and achievement for all involved.”
The borrowing will allow the RDCK to qualify for $4,179,028 from the Clean Water and Wastewater Fund, a joint Federal and Provincial grant. Construction is anticipated to start this year, finishing up in 2018. The previous phase was completed in 2016. Previous phases had depleted Arrow Creek water system reserves.
"We greatly appreciate the financial support that both the Federal and Provincial Governments have assisted us with over many years,” Jim Elford, Creston Town Councillor, said. “Without their help, completion of this project would not have been possible.”