Richmond NDP MLAs say local projects and new provincial strategy will help protect from flooding risks

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RICHMOND – New Democrat MLAs Kelly Greene, Aman Singh and Henry Yao say people in Richmond will be better protected during flooding and extreme weather emergencies, thanks to provincial climate adaptation funding for local projects.

 

“Investing in local projects that enhance flood preparedness is not just about protecting infrastructure, it’s about safeguarding the homes and lives of residents,” says Kelly Greene, MLA for Richmond-Steveston. “This funding is just one part of our ongoing work to making Richmond more resilient in the face of climate change.”

 

In Richmond, the following projects are receiving funding:

  • City of Richmond – Nature-Based Flood Protection Solutions Assessment, $150,000
  • City of Richmond – Dike Rehabilitation Project, $2.5 million

Across B.C. more than 50 local governments and First Nations are receiving a share of $39 million through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF). Projects include small-scale structural flood projects and improvements to local flood-mitigation strategies, including more accurate flood mapping.

 

“With a changing climate posing increasing risks, it’s crucial that we adopt proactive measures to mitigate these challenges,” says Aman Singh, MLA for Richmond-Queensborough. “These initiatives will play a vital role in enhancing our ability to withstand the impacts of flooding and extreme weather events.”

 

“By embracing nature-based solutions and reinforcing critical infrastructure like our city dikes, we’re taking proactive steps to fortify our community against the growing threat of flooding,” says Henry Yao, MLA for Richmond South Centre. “These two projects underscore our commitment to proactive disaster mitigation and sustainable adaptation in the face of climate change.”

 

While taking immediate steps to support communities and to keep people safe, the New Democrat government is also launching a new comprehensive B.C. Flood Strategy that will guide flood preparedness and mitigation work by all orders of government from now to 2035. The strategy will support communities to better prepare for flood impacts and strengthen their ability to respond to flood crises.

 

For more information: https://news.gov.bc.ca/30523