While work on the Wakefield Sanitary Lift Station replacement project had been delayed temporarily, the District of Sechelt says it’s now progressing well and is on track for completion by early spring.
In an email to Coast Reporter, Lindsay Vickers, communication manager for the District of Sechelt, said the schedule delays resulted from supply chain issues for the station's electrical and control systems, which are essential components of the lift station.
She added, once complete, the new lift station will significantly enhance the area's infrastructure, providing a more reliable and efficient system for the community now and into the future.
The new lift station will feature a raised site grade to protect against sea level rise and wave impacts, ensuring resilience against future climate challenges.
In February 2024, Sechelt council approved the borrowing of a short-term loan of more than $1.5 million to complete the project. The $1,578,543 short-term loan from the Municipal Finance Authority is to be paid back within five years.
In April 2023, council approved a budget of just over $4 million for the project, to be funded through various sources, including that loan, development cost charges, sewer capital reserves and an Investing in Canada Infrastructure Grant.
Vickers said while the station is mostly underground, a small building was constructed to protect the generator and some of the key electrical components from the weather and marine environment. Wakefield Sanitary Lift Station serves a large area of Sechelt and maintaining wastewater service delivery is essential.
She noted, while the project is taking longer than originally anticipated, “we're happy to report that it has remained on budget.”
