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Cranbrook, BC (January 30, 2025) – $5 million is coming to the City of Cranbrook for the replacement of the Gold Creek Dam, thanks to a successful grant application through the Disaster Risk Reduction-Climate Adaptation funding stream of the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF). See the provincial media release here.

The Gold Creek Dam Replacement Project involves rebuilding the century-old dam, which has experienced significant structural stress and is beyond its useful life. The new dam will not only resolve these structural issues but also greatly expand water storage capacity, easing water restrictions, supporting community growth, and enhancing resilience against climate change and natural disasters.

The estimated total cost of the dam replacement project is about $14.25 million. This grant will help reduce the amount the City will need to borrow to complete this important infrastructure project down to about $9.25 million.

CEPF is administered through the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM), and funds projects that support local governments and First Nations to better prepare for disasters and reduce risks from hazards in a changing climate. 

“On behalf of the City and of Council, I want to thank both UBCM and the Province of British Columbia for their generous support of this vital project. Infrastructure renewal is such a challenge for municipalities right across Canada, and I cannot stress enough how important this funding, and this project is to Cranbrook,” says Mayor Wayne Price.

50% of the approved grant will be provided up front, with the remainder of the grant paid when the project is complete, and the final report and financial summary is provided to the UBCM by January 2027. Project activities must be completed within two years.

“This project represents a significant milestone for Cranbrook, as it secures our community’s water supply for generations,” says Curtis Mummery, Manager of Roads, and Infrastructure. “Ensuring a reliable and resilient water system will empower Cranbrook to continue its growth and development while preparing for challenges posed by climate change. This is a proactive step to safeguard our future and maintain the essential resources our community relies on.”

Through this vital disaster mitigation funding, the BC Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness is helping communities, like Cranbrook, become more resilient by empowering local governments to adapt to the changing climate and better protect themselves and their residents against future climate challenges.

For information about the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund, visit: https://www.ubcm.ca/cepf.