Federal government, City of Sarnia investing $29M to rebuild wastewater system

The federal government and the City of Sarnia are investing over $29.5 million to rebuild the wastewater collection system.

“Investing in infrastructure like Sarnia’s sewer upgrade isn’t just about fixing pipes—it’s about protecting homes, strengthening communities, and making sure we’re ready for the challenges ahead,” said Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities.

The City of Sarnia is undertaking the Cromwell Area Sewer Separation and Flood Mitigation project to address the increased risk of basement flooding and sewer overflows due to more frequent and intense storms. This upgrade will replace the combined sewers with separate storm and sanitary sewers, enhance the wastewater collection system, replace the water main, and fully repave sidewalks and roads. This will reduce economic losses and protect the community from future flooding disruptions.

“Support like this for combined sewer separation will go a long way toward building a more resilient wastewater system that mitigates the negative impacts of extreme weather events such as basement flooding. Projects like these are a key piece of our Climate Action Plan and work to mitigate flooding in our community, while at the same time expand sanitary sewer capacity for new development,” said David Jackson, Engineering and Operations General Manager, City of Sarnia.

The federal government is investing $11,990,000 in this project through the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF), while the City of Sarnia is contributing $17,985,000.

Featured image: (City of Sarnia)