Ontario Construction News staff writer
PERTH/WELLINGTON COUNTIES -The Ontario government is investing almost $29 million to expand and rehabilitate rural water infrastructure in Perth and Wellington counties, aiming to protect more than 5,500 homes, support new housing, and drive economic growth in Southwestern Ontario.
The funding comes from the province’s $875-million Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program’s Health and Safety Water Stream (MHIP-HSWS), which helps municipalities modernize water systems and prepare for new housing developments.
“Across Ontario, our government is investing in our $223-billion plan to build so we can protect Ontario, keep workers on the job and connect families to the world-class services they rely on,” Premier Doug Ford said. “Today’s investment will protect homeowners and support the construction of new homes across Perth and Wellington counties. We will continue to work with our municipal partners to build for the future and keep the dream of homeownership alive in Ontario.”
Under the program, funding will go to the following municipalities:
- Township of Wellington North — $26.1 million to expand the Arthur Wastewater Treatment Plant, upgrade the associated forcemain, and replace and expand the Drayton Sewage Pumping Station in Mapleton, ensuring long-term service for 2,330 homes.
- Municipality of West Perth — $2.05 million for the Herbert Street Sewage Pumping Station, sustaining service for about 2,378 homes.
- Township of Perth East — $675,250 for the Milverton Well Replacement and Reservoir Rehabilitation, supporting 850 homes with improved water security.
“Through our historic $4-billion Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program, we are giving municipalities and First Nations the tools they need to get shovels in the ground and build stronger communities,” said Todd McCarthy, Acting Minister of Infrastructure. “Our investments will deliver more homes, modernize aging water systems and lay the foundation for long-term prosperity across Ontario.”
The MHIP-HSWS was launched in January 2025 with an initial $175 million investment. In January 2026, the province announced an additional $700 million, bringing the program’s total funding to $875 million.
Local MPP Matthew Rae welcomed the announcement, noting the benefits for both infrastructure and housing development.
“Our government is making significant, long-term investments in rural infrastructure, including right here in Perth-Wellington,” Rae said. “This nearly $29 million commitment will strengthen water systems, improve community assets and unlock new housing opportunities across Wellington and Perth Counties, which will support economic growth and ensure we are protecting our communities for the next generation.”
