Wabana water upgrades a ‘dream come true’ after a decades-long boil order

After 25 years of dealing with an unhealthy municipal water system, residents of the Bell Island community of Wabana have finally received some good news. A quarter-century-old boil order affecting 150 households has been lifted, thanks to ongoing efforts to rid the water system of contaminants like arsenic, manganese, and iron.

The announcement was made during a volunteer appreciation dinner, much to the surprise and delight of the residents. Linda Spencer, a long-time resident of Valley Hill Road, described the moment as a joyous one. She, like many others in the community, has struggled to access clean drinking water for years.

Phase 3 of the water system upgrade is now complete, with new wells, pumps, filters, and pipes ensuring that the water meets Canadian drinking water guidelines. This means that approximately 250 residents, many of whom are elderly, can now enjoy clear, safe water straight from their taps.

The town of Wabana has been investing in these upgrades, with nearly $7 million spent so far. Mayor Philip Tobin highlighted the collaborative effort between the town, provincial, and federal governments to make this project a reality. Phase 4 is already underway, with more homes expected to receive a fresh water supply later this year.

For years, the poor water quality in Wabana has been a point of contention for residents. Many have had to rely on water dispensing stations in town to access clean water for drinking and household use. The sight of discolored water flowing from taps has been a constant source of frustration for the community.

Now, with the completion of these upgrades, residents like Linda Spencer can finally breathe a sigh of relief. No longer will they have to worry about fetching water from a central location or dealing with dirty water in their homes. The town is on track to fully lift the boil water order within the next few years, ensuring that all residents have access to safe and clean drinking water.

This long-awaited development is a testament to the perseverance and dedication of town leaders and residents alike. With continued efforts and investment, Wabana is on its way to overcoming one of the longest-running boil water advisories in the country. Cheers to a brighter, healthier future for the community of Wabana!