The Manitoba government is committing $24 million to the Manitoba Water Services Board (MWSB) for the 2025-26 fiscal year, as part of a broader effort to strengthen water and wastewater systems across rural communities.
The funding, announced by Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Glen Simard, is the first installment of a five-year $120 million capital plan designed to tackle aging infrastructure and bolster environmental protection throughout the province. According to the government, the plan will prioritize projects that protect public health, safeguard the environment, and promote the development of regional systems.
“Implementing these water system upgrades protects groundwater resources and the environment,” Simard announced in a statement. “This investment will help find ways to effectively manage and improve water and wastewater infrastructures, ensuring long-term sustainability and economic prosperity for municipalities, registered water co-operatives and other communities.”
Simard added that upgraded systems will also enhance climate resiliency and encourage the adoption of innovative water technologies.
Subscribe to our Newsletter!
The latest environmental engineering news direct to your inbox. You can unsubscribe at any time.
One of the key projects includes extending municipally treated drinking water to rural areas currently under boil water advisories, such as the rural municipalities of Alexander and Lac du Bonnet.
Grandview Municipality is among the communities set to benefit from the province’s commitment. Mayor Lyle Morran welcomed the news, highlighting planned upgrades to the Sugarloaf Water Treatment Plant.
“Ensuring the safe and reliable drinking water for the residents of Grandview is a top priority for our council,” announced Morran. “Support for upgrades to our Sugarloaf Water Treatment Plant will allow us to ensure that Grandview ratepayers get the important services that keep our community moving with the continuous availability of safe and reliable drinking water.”
In addition to Grandview’s project, the capital plan will fund:
- Upgrades to the water treatment and booster station in Grandview Municipality.
- Construction of a new wastewater treatment lagoon in the Rural Municipality of Whitemouth.
- Replacement of aging watermains and sewer mains in Wawanesa, Bowsman, and Reston.
- Expansion of the Cartier Regional Water Co-operative, which is expected to boost drinking water supply for eight municipalities — including the growing areas of Rosser-CentrePort Canada and West St. Paul.
