Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Welland council has approved a $52.2 million capital budget for 2022.
“Next year’s budget takes ownership of current city challenges and addresses future needs,” said David McLeod, councillor and chair of the budget review committee.
The approved spending includes an extra $3.4 million into roads and sidewalk renewal, above the original proposal and operating funds to support staff in infrastructure services.
“The 2022 budget is strategic in providing citizens with better service delivery and significant infrastructure investment,” McLeod said. “Clearly, the budget committee and staff are aligned in providing the building blocks for Welland and its residences to thrive today and in the future.
2022 capital project budget highlights:
- $10.3 million for facility upgrades, including $6.4 million for Memorial Park pool revitalization
- $13.7 million for roads
- $2.1 million for sidewalks
- $2.6 million for storm sewers
- $2.4 million for new fire station #3
- $1.7 million for new aerial fire truck
- $1.9 million for bridges and culverts
Architects Tillmann Ruth Robinson Inc. will design the new pool, wading pool and washroom/change room building for Welland’s Memorial Park to replace the most-used outdoor pool in the city.
The project was delayed for a year because the recent federal election put the green and inclusive community grant program on hold. to the timing of a green and inclusive community buildings grant.
The city has requested $3.8 million from the federal government for the pool which is expected to cost $6.4 million.
The 2022 water/wastewater budgets includes over $13 million to replace watermains, sanitary sewers, ageing water meters, and other related infrastructure.
“This year’s budget process brought a fulsome discussion about where our City is, and more
importantly, where it’s going,” said Mayor Frank Campion. “Our investment in the future of Wellandis apparent in this budget, and I am proud of the work done by all to pass this budget. We have some bright days ahead of us.”
