BC NDP MLAs say Burnaby will be better prepared for disasters thanks to climate resiliency project

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BURNABY- BC NDP MLAs Arora, Chouhan, Kang and Routledge say new provincial funding for a local project means Burnaby will be better able to withstand and adapt to natural hazards and climate-caused disasters.

 “This funding is to help keep Burnabarians safe through a climate emergency or disaster,” says Rohini Arora, MLA for Burnaby East. “Robust seismic planning will ensure long term economic resiliency while upholding high standards of infrastructure protection particularly for my riding of Burnaby East.”

The City of Burnaby is receiving $400,000 for Burnaby Strategies and Actions for Earthquake Resilience (B-SAFER). B-SAFER focuses on developing seismic resiliency strategies, including recommendations for infrastructure improvements, upgrades and revision of bylaws and guidelines

Across B.C., 46 communities are receiving approximately $41 million for 61 projects. The projects will help reduce the impact of future climate disasters by addressing current vulnerabilities and by supporting informed planning and decision making.

“Burnaby is one of the fastest growing communities in B.C., it is very important we take action to keep families safe in the case of an earthquake,” says Raj Chouhan, MLA for Burnaby-New Westminster. “I am grateful that we can provide funding to the City of Burnaby for this essential work.”

The new Disaster Resilience and Innovation Funding (DRIF) program provides support to First Nations and local governments for projects that will enhance their ability to withstand and adapt to natural hazards and climate-caused disasters.

Since 2017, provincial funding programs have provided more than $540 million for about 2,660 disaster preparedness and mitigation projects.

Learn more: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025EMCR0019-000438

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“Burnaby residents deserve to feel safe,” says Anne Kang, MLA for Burnaby Centre. “This funding will allow the City to take important steps to improve earthquake resilience.”

“We’re highlighting the importance of being prepared for natural disasters through this program,” says Janet Routledge, MLA for Burnaby North. “Investing in B-SAFER is the first step to a more knowledgeable community.”