First major flood recovery project underway

The City of Merritt is starting to move forward on infrastructure projects around town in the wake of the flooding event on November 15. Merritt City Council approved the work last night at Council ahead of receiving any possible funds from disaster financial assistance.

“Disaster Financial Assistance (“DFA”) covers 80% of the costs to repair critical infrastructure caused by DFA eligible events. The coverage is for assets rebuilt back to their original state prior to the event. For example, if the street was partially paved with a gravel shoulder and a cement sidewalk prior to the flood we would receive 80% of the cost for a partially paved street with gravel shoulder & cement sidewalk,” said Wayne Anderson, Director of Finance.

If the City wants to improve upon what was previously in place, the cost would be 100% incurred by the City.

One project already underway in Canford Avenue where crews are replacing the sewer line and building the road back up to a passable state. The road will not be repaved until the spring.

“Normally, we would need to have a Cost Recovery Plan (CRP) in place to begin repairs. However, given the magnitude of the event, we have received approval to begin immediately and track the costs. We will not be able to file a claim for cost recovery until a CRP has been approved,” added Anderson.