Town of Oliver Seeks Federal Funding for Similkameen Avenue Utilities Project

The Town of Oliver is seeking up to $1.1 million in federal funding for its Similkameen Avenue utilities project.

According to a report by the Times Chronicle, the Town of Oliver is applying for federal funding through two grant streams from the Build Communities Strong Fund. The total application amount could reach up to $1.1 million, with the Town's contribution capped at $1 million.

The project aims to increase utility capacity fourfold, supporting up to 4,000 homes in Oliver. However, the current infrastructure on Similkameen Avenue dates back to the 1960s and serves about 1,000 homes. The Town has received $1.7 million from the BC Growing Communities Fund for the project.

Council approved new grant applications, including one to be completed immediately by July 20. The Town seeks approval for receipt of Growing Communities Fund money before approving grant applications. This is not the first time Oliver has applied for federal funding; previous unsuccessful applications include the Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund and the Union of BC Municipalities' Strategic Priorities Fund.

Conor Loughnane, a councillor in Oliver, was mentioned as part of the council that approved new grant applications. Bhupinder Dhaliwal is also mentioned as part of the team working on the project.