Province Boosts London Downtown Growth with $23M Sewer Upgrade

London is set for a significant infrastructure upgrade as the Ontario government pledges $23 million for an essential sewer project. This investment aims to expand the sewer capacity, vital for accommodating large housing projects in the downtown area.

Announced by Premier Doug Ford and Infrastructure Minister Kinga Surma at London City Hall, the funding will cover 73% of the costs to replace a nearly 100-year-old pipe under the Thames River. Starting next year, crews will dig below the Forks of the Thames River to make the necessary connections, ensuring the city is well-equipped for future growth.

The aging pipe currently channels wastewater from the downtown core to the Greenway Treatment Plant. With this upgrade, the city can support new housing developments, crucial for London's rapidly growing population and booming manufacturing sector.

London Mayor Josh Morgan highlighted the significance of this funding during the announcement. He emphasized that the added sewer capacity is a pivotal step in supporting new downtown housing towers. The need for this upgrade was recently underscored by a proposal to build over 1,000 rental units at the corner of York and Wellington Streets, which was approved with a delay until the sewer capacity could be expanded.

Ashley Rammeloo, London's director of wastewater, added that the province's financial support will provide relief to city taxpayers, who are already bracing for a property tax increase over the next few years. The strategic investment also aligns with enhancing multiple sewer connections under the river, addressing long-term infrastructure needs.

This sewer upgrade is part of a broader effort to keep pace with London's development demands. The project will directly benefit ongoing and future downtown construction, aiding businesses and residents alike.

As York Street undergoes current infrastructure improvements, the announced sewer replacement will ensure that new residential projects can proceed without significant delays. This is a positive step for London, aligning with the city's growth strategy and catering to the urgent need for more housing options in the downtown area.

The upgrade also ties into London's broader plans, including enhancing the city's appeal for new businesses and manufacturers. With infrastructure playing a crucial role in urban development, this project signifies progress in making London a hub of economic activity and residential growth.

London's Renew Construction Program continues to win big, securing investments and setting the stage for future developments. This recent announcement serves as a major win for the city, illustrating the collaborative effort between provincial leadership and municipal planning to foster an environment capable of sustaining economic and population growth in a thriving downtown core.