The City of Nelson is moving ahead with plans for a major infrastructure upgrade as it seeks funding to replace its failing sewer line. Officials have confirmed that the city applied for $7 million through the Union of B.C. Municipalities Strategic Priorities Fund, which is supported by the Canada Community-Building Fund. The request is for the maximum amount allowed under the program, which helps municipalities across the country finance large infrastructure projects.
The full project has been estimated to cost $11.6 million. If the application is approved, the remaining $4.6 million will be covered by the city through its wastewater utility reserves. Council members approved the decision to apply on August 19, making the replacement of the Grohman Narrows wastewater treatment plant force main one of the city’s most urgent priorities.
The sewer line in question is more than 50 years old and is showing serious signs of deterioration. According to a recent city report, the marine force main that carries untreated sewage to Grohman Narrows has already developed leaks. The damage is linked to corrosion in the aging steel pipe, and the leaks are causing untreated sewage to enter the Kootenay River. City staff have warned that this problem could grow worse if the line is not replaced soon, posing both environmental and public health risks.
Untreated wastewater in the river can harm aquatic ecosystems, reduce water quality, and create health concerns for residents who use the waterway for recreation. City officials explained that the longer the line is left in place, the greater the chance of a full system failure, which could lead to severe pollution and much higher emergency costs.
The Nelson sewer line replacement project is expected to provide a long-term solution. By installing new materials designed to resist corrosion, the city will ensure that wastewater can be managed safely for decades to come. Officials added that the project is a critical investment in essential infrastructure and a way to reduce risks for the community’s future.
Applying for outside funding is also seen as a way to limit financial pressure on local taxpayers. Without the $7 million grant, Nelson would have to carry the entire cost of the $11.6 million replacement project alone. City leaders have said that the Strategic Priorities Fund is designed for situations like this, where the protection of public health and the environment requires major upgrades that small municipalities cannot finance on their own.
City manager Kevin Cormack expressed optimism that Nelson’s case for funding will be strong. He said the project clearly meets the goals of the program, which is focused on essential services and environmental protection. Cormack also pointed out that the city cannot afford to delay the work, since the sewer line is already leaking into the river and will only continue to deteriorate with time.
While the cost of the project is significant, officials view it as an unavoidable investment in the city’s infrastructure. Sewer lines are essential for every household and business, and keeping the system safe ensures that the community can continue to grow without facing major service disruptions. If funding is secured, Nelson plans to move quickly into design and construction, although timelines will depend on the grant approval process and contractor availability.
For now, residents are being assured that the Nelson sewer line replacement is one of the city’s top priorities. Officials say the project is necessary to protect both the Kootenay River and the health of the community, and they remain hopeful that federal funding support will allow the work to proceed as soon as possible.
