A funding boost from the province is expected to go a long way in helping to upgrade the storm sewer and water infrastructure in Watford.
Lambton-Kent MPP Steve Pinsonneault presented a $3.3 million cheque to the Township of Warwick on Friday, March 6.
“Investing in Warwick’s water infrastructure is an important step in keeping our community safe and prepared for the future," said Pinsonneault in a media release. "Upgrading the Watford storm sewer and water system will protect residents during extreme weather and boost local economic growth."
The funding was provided through the province’s Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program’s Health and Safety Water Stream.
“After experiencing two significant weather events in 2023 and 2024, our municipality needed financial support to implement a long-term solution that moves water away from Watford and better protects our residents and infrastructure,” said Mayor Todd Case. “This funding allows us to address the impacts of those storms, replace aging watermains, and take meaningful steps to safeguard our community for years to come.”
Public Works Manager Kyle Chisholm told Sarnia News Today the township applied for grant funding last year and included specific areas that need to be addressed.
"For this portion, we're going to do John Street from Simcoe Street to Erie Street, St. Clair Street from John Street to Warwick Street, on Warwick Street it'll go from St. Clair Street to Erie Street, and then Erie Street from Warwick to Nauvoo Road," Chisholm said.
A specific project timeline has not been finalized as contracts still need to be tendered.
"This year, we will start with the stormwater outlet in the Brown/Jarriott South Branch, and then next year, we will proceed with the road reconstruction work with an expected completion at the end of 2027," said Chisholm.
The Brown/Jarriott South Branch Outlet Rehabilitation Project was included in the 2026 budget.
Chisholm said they're grateful to receive funding, which will be key to the overall goal of improving the municipality's stormwater infrastructure.
"The large dollar amount indicates we couldn't go this alone, we definitely need partners," Chisholm said. "It's a key part of improving our infrastructure to be more resilient to rain events."
The township has a history of extensive flooding caused by torrential downpours. In 2024, two states of emergencies were declared due to significant rainfall events, which caused extensive flooding and temporary road closures.
The Ontario government increased the Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program in 2025 to $4 billion to support the construction of new homes and associated infrastructure, such as roads and water systems.
