The Village of Harrison Hot Springs received a Rural Dividend Fund grant of $80K to beautify its new flood pump, an ambitious undertaking, also known as the Miami River Flood Pump Enhancement Project.
“It was wonderful news — to have $81,000 in our back pocket to go toward the beautification of the pump,” said Mayor Leo Facio “Not every community received the grant but we did, along with the Community Recognition Award for the upgrades to the Beach Washrooms Facility and the extra one per cent hotel tax,” he said.
The Flood Pump Enhancement Initiative aims to take ‘a nondescript industrial installation along the Miami River and turn it into a focal point for art and recreation,’ according to a report provided by The Village of Harrison Hot Springs.
“We are still waiting for a decision on our application for a sizable infrastructure grant for the extension of Harrison’s water system. We hope to know by year’s end,” said Chilliwack-Hope MLA Laurie Throness. “Certainly we’re on the Ministry’s radar, given that we were successful in receiving $1.2 million in infrastructure grants for the flood pump.”
Beautification of the structure will allow the public a unique opportunity to enjoy the aesthetics of the structure, while appreciating the functionality the flood pump will provide.
“It will be a place to learn more about the function of this innovative and fish-friendly technology and to study the unique wetland environment,” according to the report.
The austere grey walls of the two structures will be dramatically changed, and will showcase wildlife both mythological and local. Sasquatches, sturgeon and salmon, will be among some of the creatures to be displayed on its walls.
“The technology is bold and innovative ‑ the infrastructure sits on a dam between the beautiful Miami River and magnificent Harrison Lake and the project will turn an eye sore, albeit a functional eyesore, into a tourist amenity which supports eco-tourism, educational tourism and promotes the community as an age-friendly destination.”