Stettler secures $3.2M provincial grant for wastewater upgrades

Funds will modernize the community’s 50-year-old lift stations, with construction set for 2027

Stettler secures $3.2M provincial grant for wastewater upgrades Published 1:16 pm Thursday, July 16, 2026 The Town of Stettler has been awarded a provincial grant worth about $3.26 million to upgrade wastewater infrastructure. A July 16 release by the town announced the grant, stating that the funds will go towards upgrades to the community’s two wastewater lift stations. Built in 1976, the two lift stations have undergone what the town calls minor upgrades and maintenance over the years, allowing their service lives to be extended.

They are now reaching the end of their life and need major rehabilitation to continue functioning. “On behalf of town council and our community, I want to sincerely thank the Government of Alberta for recognizing the importance of this project and partnering with us to make it happen,” said Mayor Gord Lawlor. “This investment will improve reliability, reduce long-term maintenance costs and ensure our infrastructure is ready to support expanding residential and business opportunities in the future.

It’s another important step in building a strong, sustainable future for Stettler.” According to the release, a proactive maintenance plan and forethought have allowed the town to extend the lifespan of existing utilities, and the town says the project demonstrates its commitment to responsibly managing assets and renewing infrastructure. “Our Water/Wastewater Department takes great pride in maintaining town infrastructure and ensuring taxpayers receive the maximum value from every asset,” said Leann Graham, Town of Stettler chief administrative officer.

“Through the leadership of our Director of Operations, Melissa Robbins, and our Water/Wastewater Foreman, Grant McQuay, we have been able to extend the service life of these lift stations well beyond what many communities experience by prioritizing regular inspections, preventative maintenance, equipment repairs and strategic upgrades. This rehabilitation project will modernize crucial components within both lift stations, improving reliability, operational efficiency and the town’s ability to continue providing dependable wastewater services to residents and businesses.” The release notes that Drumheller–Stettler MLA Nate Horner helped advocate for the grant and project.

“The Alberta Municipal Water/Wastewater Partnership provides great opportunities for shared investment in local infrastructure upgrades,” Horner said. “Through this partnership, the Government of Alberta is proud to work with the Town of Stettler on their lift station project to ensure ongoing reliable services for residents and to allow for growth in the community in the future.” Rehabilitation on the two lift stations is expected to begin in 2027, with design and project planning to occur first.

The grant has been awarded through the Alberta Municipal Water/Wastewater Partnership program.