Last year was difficult for many in the community with the COVID-19 pandemic taking most of the blame. Despite a turbulent year, the Mayor of Rainy River, Deb Ewald, said there are many exciting projects to look forward to in 2021.
The greenhouse feasibility study is one that has been in the works for a long time and is finally coming to fruition.
The Ontario government announced in December that it has awarded $16,500 to help the Town of Rainy River conduct the study that will support a growing agri-food sector in the north.
Ewald said she is very excited to begin this project which is in conjunction with Dawson Township and Lake of the Woods Township.
“I’m hoping to do this because something like that I see as sustainable for the district as a whole,” Ewald said. “People are always going to need food.”
Ewald adds that if the study is successful, they can look into supporting agriculture growth year-round. She adds that it would mean a lot to the community because they could provide fresh and hopefully less expensive food because it would take away transportation costs.
Ewald said they are currently waiting to finalize a few more details before the project begins but that she is hopeful that there will be a positive outcome.
Another project in the works is the rehabilitative construction on Second Street that is set to start soon and Ewald said they aim to have done by the end of 2021.
In November, it was announced that the federal government was contributing $945,739 and the Town of Rainy River is providing $756.761. The project involves replacing 760 metres of water distribution lines and 570 metres of wastewater collection lines. As well, the installation of three new fire hydrants.
Ewald said is a good thing as the pipes are around 116 years old. She adds that it has become a health and safety issue that they must concentrate on.
Ewald said that this leaves one major street that needs the water and sewer lines replaced which is Third Street.
“We’re hoping that we can apply for Third Street, then all our major streets are done,” Ewald said. “We have some water lines that need to be replaced here and there but essentially, the main part of the town will be all brand new.”
Ewald said that tender for engineers have just been sent out to begin work on Second Street.
