Two major Vancouver Island projects are receiving millions in infrastructure funding, including a first-in-Canada wastewater innovation project in the Capital Regional District and a major upgrade to the Comox Fire Station. The projects are among 54 community infrastructure initiatives across British Columbia receiving more than $152 million through the Build Communities Strong Fund Community stream. The Capital Regional District (CRD) will receive $7 million to develop a facility that converts biosolids from wastewater treatment into biochar, a carbon-rich material with potential uses in agriculture, construction and other industries. The technology is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by decreasing the amount of waste requiring disposal, removing contaminants and permanently storing carbon while creating a reusable product. The investment will help advance the region’s approach to wastewater management and resource recovery, according to CRD chair Cliff McNeil-Smith. “This biochar project will position the CRD as a national leader in biosolids management, carbon reduction and resource recovery,” McNeil-Smith said in a statement. “We are proud to advance an initiative that will provide lasting environmental and community benefits while further establishing our region as a leader in sustainable wastewater management.” The Town of Comox is receiving $5 million to upgrade its fire station, which has served the community for nearly 50 years. The modernized facility will include backup power, improved firefighter health and safety features, expanded training and office space, accessibility upgrades and five affordable on-site lodging units designed to support faster overnight emergency response. The new station will also serve as Comox’s Emergency Operations Centre. Comox Mayor Nicole Minions says the investment will help strengthen emergency services while supporting the community’s needs. “This project is about ensuring Comox Fire Rescue can continue to deliver high-quality emergency services while meeting the needs of our growing community,” Minions said in a statement. “By investing in this upgrade now, we are strengthening emergency preparedness, supporting firefighter health and safety, and helping to manage our long-term infrastructure costs.” The Comox Fire Station upgrade is estimated to cost about $6.1 million. After the grant funding is applied, the remaining cost will be shared between the Town of Comox and the Comox Fire Protection District. Across British Columbia, the funding will also support a new fire hall in Metchosin, a multi-sport turf field in Prince George and more than a dozen drinking water and wastewater projects. Another portion of the investment will help local governments improve long-term planning, sustainability strategies and asset management practices. The Build Communities Strong Fund is backed by the federal government and administered in B.C. by the Union of British Columbia Municipalities. The province will receive more than $326 million through the program during the 2026-27 fiscal year.
