The Campbell River Water Supply Centre, the pumping and disinfection facility on the shores of John Hart Lake, officially opened last week, capping off a six-year, multi-million-dollar project that will meet water needs well into the future.
Water flowing from the new facility is disinfected with both ultra-violet radiation and sodium hypochlorite that is generated on site. The new water supply system was required because the BC Hydro penstocks, formerly the City’s connection to the water source, are being removed as part of the John Hart Generating Station replacement project.
Campbell River’s water system distributes potable water for domestic, commercial and industrial use as well as fire protection via transmission and distribution water mains running throughout the community and to local First Nations, including the Wei Wai Kum reserve.
A Wood First approach was used in the design and construction of the water supply facility itself, with trees felled on the property used on the interior of the building. Carvers Bill Henderson and Junior Henderson of the Wei Wai Kum First Nation carved three totems for the structural columns on the front of the building and also carved the front doors.
“Their work ensures the facility fits beautifully and naturally into its surroundings,” said Campbell River Mayor Andy Adams.