Prince George’s stormwater system is in need of updating, a report to city council says, and it will take between $31-million to $125-million in order to do it.
The report says stormwater management is becoming a higher priority because of a potent mix of more intense storms, aging infrastructure and development.
As the community grows, there is potential for an increase in impervious surfaces like roads and buildings, explained Acting Deputy City Manager Ian Wells.
This can lead to issues like road damage, erosion, contaminated creeks and rivers as well as flooding.
Phase one of the Integrated Stormwater Management Plan is now complete, and over 261 items of concern were identified.
$31 million was given as a lower cost estimate and $125- as the higher end.
Ten were considered to be of higher priority, with a total cost of $1.2 million to $5 million.
- Parkridge Creek – Replace Domano Culvert
- Create Erosion and Sediment Control Bylaw
- Wetlands & Riparian area protection
- Update Design Guidelines to consider climate change
- Secure sustainable levels of stormwater funding
- Replace high priority cross culverts in poor condition
- Habitat protection
- Update Design Guidelines to include Low Impact Development standards
- Expand floodplain development permit areas along Parkridge Creek
- Update Bylaws (DCC, Development, Tree Protection)
Faced with the daunting price tag, some Councillors expressed their concern, saying Prince George won’t be able to take on the project singlehandedly.
“We simply can’t do this on our own. We need senior government help. I know we have been reminded that there is only one taxpayer, but we need some help here,” said Councillor Brian Skakun, “This is something we can’t ignore.”
“We can’t just raise taxes. It sounds like we might come up with a dedicated fee or levy to implement this and that’s very concerning.”
After each of the four phases is complete, an overall document and roadmap will be used for public engagement on the matter.
The next working paper outcomes that will be brought to Council are all about engineering issues and asset management.
It is expected that this part of the ISMP project will be completed in April.
After that, the policy & regulations working paper, as well as the financing options will be brought to Council in May or June.
Prior to doing public engagement around stormwater, the final project presentation on the overarching Guiding Document and Action Roadmap will be brought to
Council this summer.
The final outcome is to have a strategic document that will provide the City with an action plan to ensure healthy watersheds and sustainable stormwater services, all while addressing the impact of existing development.
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