Dawson Creek city officials have revealed that the cost of constructing a water pipeline for the northeastern British Columbia community could reach as high as $272 million, nearly three times the initial estimate. The findings from a feasibility study conducted by the city were presented to the council, indicating a significant increase in projected costs.

Councilor Jerimy Earl acknowledged that residents might be surprised by the higher price tag, as they were originally informed that the project would cost around $100 million. However, Earl expressed confidence in the city’s progress in addressing the issue, despite potential public scrutiny and debates over the decision-making process.

Devon Aaroe, the city’s general manager of major infrastructure and development, emphasized the importance of the feasibility study in exploring various options to address the challenges posed by relying on a single water source, exacerbated by factors such as drought, climate change, and the need to accommodate future growth.

Following years of water scarcity threats to its primary water source, the Kiskatinaw River, the city implemented water conservation measures. The feasibility study outlined four potential options, including continuing to draw water from the Kiskatinaw River with enhanced drought and emergency planning, sourcing water from the Pine River, or utilizing water from the Peace River near Taylor or Clayhurst.

The estimated costs for these alternatives vary, with maintenance expenses over 50 years projected to range from $236 million for the Pine River source to $314 million for the Taylor option. The report highlighted the resilience of the Taylor and Clayhurst regions to climate change, indicating them as favorable long-term water sources.

Furthermore, the proposed Site E project, a prospective dam on the Peace River, could impact the Taylor and Clayhurst areas due to potential flooding. Discussions with B.C. Hydro representatives regarding Site E are scheduled, with the Crown corporation exploring the project’s feasibility.

Councilor Earl expressed interest in exploring potential collaborations with B.C. Hydro on Site E, emphasizing the need for early discussions to leverage possible cost savings. Recommendations regarding the water pipeline project are anticipated at an upcoming council meeting on August 24, with public engagement forming a crucial part of the subsequent planning phase by the city.