The Wheatland Regional Corporation (WRC) has delivered on its promise… and now it is delivering water.
    Last week it announced the substantive completion of the first phase of its regional water project and is delivering water to Gleichen.
    “Today marks a very important milestone for Wheatland Regional Corporation with the flowing of regional water to the residents of Gleichen and rural residents along the pipeline.  During the town hall meetings, the board committed to the people of Gleichen better quality water and a date for arrival and we have fulfilled that promise,” said Darcy Burke, Mayor of Rockyford and chairman of the WRC.
     The project draws water from the Western Irrigation District. The initial phase included the completion of a raw water intake and reservoir within the Village of Standard. Raw water pipes to the upgraded Standard Water Treatment plant were installed, followed by potable water lines from Standard to the hamlet of Gleichen. The line also supplies rural users along the way.
    The project is well supported by all levels of government, and the first phase is funded through the province’s Water for Life program as well as Wheatland County, and the Villages of Standard, Rockyford, and Hussar. Its initial price estimate was just over $22 million.
    “Our government is proud to support the Wheatland Regional Water Pipeline, an example of leaders coming together in the common interest of their communities,” said Brian Mason, Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation. “Access to clean drinking water and water-wastewater treatment systems is essential for all Albertans and their quality of life. We will remain focused on investing in Alberta’s public infrastructure so that our province continues to serve the needs of Albertans today and for generations to come.”
    According to a press release, WRC highlights the support and commitment of our province to the project that it is delivered on time with the successful tie into Gleichen and supply water to the hamlet. The province had delivered the funds in a timely manner that resulted in a reduced cost of the project and delivery of the services.
    “On behalf of the corporation, I want to sincerely thank the partners and contractors for their commitment towards this accomplishment.  This project clearly demonstrates what can be achieved when strong partnerships have a dream and work hard together to bring that dream to reality,” said Burke.
    The WRC has received funding for the second phase of the project, which will supply water to Rockyford.