Province commits funding to Salem Wastewater Project

April 12, 2024

Outgoing Pictou West MLA Karla MacFarlane had some good news for the residents of Salem, Pictou County on her last day as their representative Friday, April 12.

She was joined at the West River Fire Hall by Premier Tim Houston who announce
d that the province will be contributing $1.6 million to extend wastewater to the community of Salem.
The Salem wastewater extension project, which will cost an estimated $3.2 million, will include the construction of a wastewater collection and pumping system to serve about 30 homes and businesses.

Funding for the project is part of the Municipal Capital Growth Program that was announced in February 2023. The project is expected to be cost-shared with the Municipality of Pictou County. MOPC Warden Robert Parker said the MOPC also hopes to apply for federal funding for the project.

The project is expected to improve the quality of life for current residents and create the opportunity for more growth in the region.

“Today’s investment will ensure the residents and businesses of Salem have access to an upgraded wastewater system so they can continue to grow and thrive,” said Premier Houston.


Warden Parker shared similar thoughts with those gathered.
“In a lot of our villages and communities, housing happens when you have the things people are looking for,” Warden Parker said. “You have to have decent water. You have to have sewer that works.”

Warden Parker thanked MLA MacFarlane for her support in getting funding for the project.
He said a good deal of credit is also due the late Carl McCunn, who right up until his deathbed was actively lobbying for the project.

“Nobody worked harder than Carl to get this done,” Warden Parker said. “For a fellow who knew he was on the way out, he was still very concerned about the sewer in Salem.”

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