Delta will receive just over $666,000 from the federal and provincial governments in flood protection funding.
Delta-Richmond East MP Kerry-Lynne Findlay was joined at Delta Municipal Hall last Friday afternoon by Mayor Lois Jackson and others to announce the joint funding.
More than $27 million will be invested in 26 flood mitigation projects across the province.
The Delta project includes 450 metres of dike along Boundary Bay between 96th and 104th streets as well as 50 metres of dike north of Beach Grove. Work will improve the grade of the slope and provide a larger riprap protection layer.
It's a continuation of dike erosion protection upgrades underway since 2003.
Delta will also contribute just over $333,000, making it a $1 million endeavour.
"Our government is committed to keeping Canadians safe," said Findlay, the minister of national revenue.
"The funding announced today will help ensure Delta's dikes meet modern standards well into the future."
"Living next to the water can be a concern for people who live here," said Delta North Liberal MLA Scott Hamilton. "Protecting our homes and our farmland is a priority for our government."
Jackson said Delta has been vigilant and proactive when it comes to flood protection, but future projects will be needed.
"For more than 10 years, Delta has been working to improve flood protection and dike foreshore erosion protection," Jackson said. "To date, our partnership with the federal and provincial governments has resulted in the completion of more than 3,000 metres
of improved foreshore protection on the East Delta/Boundary Bay dike and a major pump station upgrade.
"This project continues that successful partnership and will improve another 450 metres of foreshore dike protection, for longterm flood protection in our community."
There are about 61 kilometres of dikes and seawalls in Delta, its location on the Fraser River floodplain placing the community at greater risk of flooding.
A federal advisory panel report a couple of years ago noted Metro Vancouver is at greater risk of flood damage due to climate change than any place in Canada.
The study, titled Paying the Price: The Economic Impacts of Climate Change for Canada, recommended a detailed assessment of flood risks and the ability of the region's protective dikes to withstand climate change be undertaken.
