Ottawa opens funding spigot to help pay for $206.7M Toronto storm sewer system

TORONTO—A water infrastructure project aimed at reducing the risk of basement flooding in west Toronto is moving ahead with $73.2 million in backing from the federal government.

The stormwater project, centred roughly at Rogers and Caledonia Roads on the west end of the city, will relieve pressure on Toronto’s existing sewer system during major storms.

“Basement flooding has become more prevalent in our city, impacting the lives and homes of the residents of Toronto,” Toronto Mayor John Tory said in a release.

“The Fairbank-Silverthorn Trunk Storm Sewer System project, the largest basement flooding protection project the City will complete, will make a significant difference for residents, properties and the environment, and we’re pleased to have the federal government as a funding partner for this important project,” he added.

The funding from Ottawa adds to the $133.49 million already committed by the city.

Work on the design-bid-build project is expected to start in 2021 and run through 2025. The city said it anticipates handing out numerous construction contracts for the work.