The Town of St. George's will be getting a new fire hall as part of this year's municipal capital works projects.
Announced in Budget 2011, the provincial government contributed approximately $1.5 million toward infrastructure projects in the St. George's-Stephenville East area town.
Municipal Affairs Minister Kevin O'Brien said the current fire hall served the community of St. George's well, but there is a need for a new, larger building to enhance the services offered by the volunteer fire department.
"Fire halls are important infrastructure for communities as they are focal points for emergency services," he said.
A 357-square-metre fire hall will be constructed, replacing the former facility.
St. George's will also receive funding to replace the pressure reduction valve of its water system, improving water services, and funding for repairs to the roof of the Siki Bennett Memorial Stadium.
"This is a much needed facility for a growing community, and will no doubt improve the emergency response capability of the fire department," Education Minister Joan Burke, MHA for St. George's-Stephenville East, said. "As well, the Siki Bennett Memorial Stadium plays such an important part of the lives of residents that the repairs to the roof are most welcome, along with the water and sewer project for the town."
Budget 2011 included $140.8 million for new and ongoing municipal infrastructure projects, according to a provincial government news release. When combined with federal cost-shared programs and municipal contributions, the total investment this year is expected to be approximately $219 million.
