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Malahat Nation Water and Wastewater 

Sector(s)
Green Infrastructure, Indigenous Infrastructure
Location(s)
Malahat Nation, B.C.
Participation
$57.6 million
(Financial close)
Partner(s)
Malahat Nation, Indigenous Services Canada

Malahat Nation to build new water and wastewater facilities

New facilities will improve water quality, support new housing and economic development 

Fast facts

$57.6 million loan to help finance water facility upgrades and new wastewater plant
Will improve water quality and water safety for the community
Improved fire suppression capacity

We are loaning $57.6 million to help the Malahat Nation, located on Vancouver Island, to build a new water and wastewater facility which will provide clean water and support construction of housing and expansion of Indigenous-owned businesses.

The project’s development timeline was advanced, thanks in large part to the CIB providing $900,000 in acceleration funding, which has been rolled into the loan. This is the first project in which acceleration funding has matured into a closed investment.

The expansion of water storage capacities will ensure adequate reserves and flows for firefighting, emergencies, and climate resiliency. The new wastewater system will better protect underground water supplies on reserve and the ecosystem and shellfish beds in the Saanich Inlet, by improving the quality of effluent. 

Benefits of the CIB’s involvement

Without the CIB’s concessional support, water ratepayers would face significant economic challenges. The CIB’s flexible and low-cost capital helps mitigate this affordability gap, offering cost savings, ensuring rates are comparable with neighbouring districts.  

The project is expected to support approximately 470 direct and indirect jobs and $55 million in GDP during the construction phase.  

Learn more

Disclaimer: The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) in its sole and absolute discretion may choose to make available amendments, revisions, modifications, or replacements to this website. This page will remain open for further revision, modification, replacement or cancellation by the CIB at any time and in no event shall the CIB be responsible or liable, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss caused or alleged to be caused by or in connection with the use of or reliance on the content of this website. 

Malahat Nation

Today marks a significant step forward — not just for this project, but for the well-being of our entire community. The CIB’s investment in these developments will help deliver a modern, reliable water and wastewater infrastructure. These next steps are vital in creating a brighter future for the next generations, bringing both meaningful employment and the much-needed housing our Nation deserves.

Chief Gordon Harry
Cowichan Tribes

As the largest First Nation in BC by population with more than 5,500 citizens, the need for housing for our families is acute. However, there are many complex challenges to building on-reserve housing. I commend KDLLP for the unique partnerships and collaboration they have fostered with the Province of BC, BC Housing, and the Canada Infrastructure Bank to build these 200 new homes. Today marks a milestone for not only this project, but for our community. This major housing development will transform the lives of the residents who will live here, at the edge of the Quw’utsun Sta’lo’ (Cowichan River) which has sustained our people physically and spiritually for millennia.

Chief Sulsulxumaat Cindy Daniels
Khowutzun Development Corporation

Today represents the combined efforts of KDLLP, Cowichan Tribes, the Province of B.C., and the Canada Infrastructure Bank — a true testament to the power of collaboration and community. Our team of architects and engineers has delivered an inspired design that reflects the deep significance of the Cowichan River, the land, and the central role family plays in the lives of Cowichan Tribes citizens. Rivers Edge will provide much-needed housing for Cowichan Tribes and the wider Cowichan Valley, creating a positive legacy that will serve generations to come.

Renée Olson, Chief Executive Officer
Government of Canada

As a nation of builders, it’s time to build Canada stronger. The CIB’s investments in these projects will provide new, modernized wastewater infrastructure, enabling the construction of new homes for hundreds of people in the Malahat Nation and Cowichan Tribes. These important investments will unlock new opportunities for growth, economic development, and help build stronger, more prosperous communities across Vancouver Island.

Hon. Gregor Robertson
Government of British Columbia

It’s crucial that Indigenous people in B.C. have housing that reflects their needs and values. That’s why we’re working in partnership with First Nations, non-profits, and all levels of government to fast-track more rental homes. Through Rivers Edge, members of the Cowichan Tribes and people from the broader community will be able to find an affordable home in the community they love, close to family, friends and Elders. We’ll keep working with our community and government partners to build stronger neighbourhoods with the services people count on. 

 

Hon. Ravi Kahlon

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