Canada Helps Protect Richmond Residents From Disastrous Impacts of Flooding

RICHMOND, British Columbia, April 24 -- Infrastructure Canada issued the following news release:

Now more than ever, communities need help adapting to the frequent and intensifying weather events caused by climate change. Reducing the impact of natural disasters such as flooding is critical to keeping Canadian families safe, protecting local businesses and supporting a strong economy and the middle class.

Today, the Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, the Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, announced funding for a flood protection project in Richmond.

The project involves upgrading approximately 4.3 kilometres of the city's dike network, including raising its height so it can withstand rising sea levels due to climate change. Five pump stations will also be upgraded to provide better drainage during flooding and divert water from the Fraser River to farms for irrigation in the dry season.

Once complete, the project will significantly reduce the risk of flooding in Richmond, protect critical infrastructure and promote economic growth for the region.

The Government of Canada is contributing over $13.7 million to this project through the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund.

Quotes

"By investing in this important flood protection project for Richmond, we are helping ensure residents and businesses are protected from the heavy personal and economic costs of extreme weather events. Investing in this kind of infrastructure also creates good middle-class jobs and supports a strong economy, paving the way for a safe prosperous future for our kids and grandkids."

The Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities

"Extreme weather is becoming more severe, more frequent, more damaging and more expensive because of climate change. By investing in the infrastructure that protects our neighbourhoods, businesses, and families, we are building communities that can withstand future natural disasters and thrive for generations to come."

The Honourable Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety

"Now more than ever, Canadian communities need to take action and adapt to climate change. I am proud that our government is supporting this important work that will help improve the City of Richmond's existing infrastructure and protect the community and residents from flooding for decades to come."

Joe Peschisolido, Member of Parliament for Steveston-Richmond East

"As an island community, flood protection is a critical priority for the City of Richmond, We are well protected today, but further improvements are necessary to address emerging threats due to climate change. This investment from the Government of Canada will help ensure Richmond residents, businesses and infrastructure remain safe and secure."

His Worship Malcolm Brodie, Mayor of Richmond

Quick facts

* The Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF) is a $2-billion, 10-year program to help communities build the infrastructure they need to better withstand natural hazards such as floods, wildfires, earthquakes and droughts.

* DMAF is part of the federal government's Investing in Canada infrastructure plan, which is providing more than $180 billion over 12 years for public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and rural and northern communities.

* Investing in green infrastructure that helps communities cope with the intensifying effects of climate change is an integral part of Canada's transition to a more resilient, low-carbon economy, which is among the commitments made under the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change.

* Budget 2019, Investing in the Middle Class, is the federal government's plan to create more well-paying jobs, put home ownership within reach for more Canadians, help working people get the training they need to succeed, support seniors and lay the foundation for national pharmacare.

* With many municipalities across Canada facing serious infrastructure deficits, Budget 2019 includes a one-time top-up of $2.2 billion to the federal Gas Tax Fund to help address short-term priorities in municipalities and First Nations communities.