Perth receives nearly $3 million for wastewater lagoon expansion, laying groundwork for future homes

The Town of Perth has been awarded a substantial grant of $2,952,850 from the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund (HEWSF) through the Ministry of Infrastructure. 

The funds, announced on Thursday, Jan. 30, will support capacity expansion of the Perth Wastewater Lagoon, facilitating the development of an additional 2,500 housing units and supporting the Province’s Build More Homes Faster Act.

Grant Machan, Perth’s Director of Environmental Services, noted in a media release that this funding is essential to the town in order to address the growing needs of the community.

“Increasing our wastewater lagoon capacity to support a total equivalent of 10,500 people  is a pivotal step towards supporting sustainable residential development and ensuring we can continue to provide essential services to our residents and businesses,” Machan said.

Michael Touw, the town’s Chief Administrative Officer added that the project supports both current infrastructure needs and lays the groundwork for future growth and housing.

“This project not only supports our current infrastructure needs but also lays the groundwork for future growth and housing.”

The grant is part of the Ontario government’s $325 million commitment to enhancing critical water infrastructure across the province, aimed at supporting the construction of up to 107,000 new homes. Through the HEWSF, municipalities can receive assistance in building, repairing, rehabilitating, and expanding vital drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure.