Spring is coming along, and so is the District of Barriere’s new well (Deep Well #3).
District of Barriere CAO Bob Payette reports another significant step was made this past week with the installation of the control panel for the well.
“All of the supply chain gods looked positively upon the district and the missing CPU [central processing unit] that we have been waiting for,” said Payette, “It finally arrived, and was quickly installed along with the control panel that will operate the new DW #3 and the current DW #2.
“We are looking forward to the final commissioning process for the new well which includes water samples being confirmed and also connecting the well into the distribution system.”
Conditioning a well takes time and care explained the CAO.
“This process is much like starting a cold car in the winter; we don’t want to over rev that engine and cause damage. This needs to be slow and steady to ensure that the filters down deep inside the well casing get packed appropriately.”
He says to be successful in this sensitive process, the district relies heavily on an expert drilling company and hydro-geologist.
“After the commission process, we will then go in and replace the pump for the current well,” added Payette, “This pump is way over its life expectancy and we are looking forward to getting a new pump installed and receiving confirmation that
the water flow is back online.
“All indications are that the DW#2 pump replacement will be completed in the course of a few weeks. The overall project has been grant funded through our Gas Tax funding. The cost is approximately $600K and the results will confirm a redundant supply of potable water for the entire town for years to come.
“The new well doesn’t increase our overall amount of available potable water, however we will be in a much more secure
situation of predicable volumes and quality of water.” He notes this will allow for council to consider going back to Stage 1 watering restrictions which would permit irrigation of lawns and gardens of those using the Barriere water system.
With spring almost here, it is worthy to note that council has approved a number of projects including a fenced dog park
to be located across the street from the outdoor, multipurpose court. The district is also looking at the feasibility of constructing a new washroom facility and warming hut at the outdoor court for both summer and winter activities.
“Solar lighting is planned for the Barriere River Bridge and Bradford Park area, and we would also like to do some
beautification by way of hanging flowers along the bridge this summer,” added the CAO. “Some other areas that will see improvement include the bandshell, where we will upgrade the electrical system for outdoor vendors, and in addition,
electric vehicle charging stations are expected to be installed beside the band shell this year.”
Payette adds, “There is an amazing project that looks very promising to be completed this year. The new skateboard park which has been organized by the Barriere Skatepark Association. At this point the fundraising looks excellent and they are now working to secure a construction company to complete the work.”
Rounding things out on the list of outdoor amenities, the CAO advised the district is also looking at the feasibility of creating a multi-use trail on the north side of town that will run along the ridge. The trail would be in partnership with
Clary Developments.
Spring projects are definitely on the way in the District of Barriere.
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