Three new projects will be added to Whitehorse’s application for grants from the Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund.
The $32-million fund supports projects that will improve the quality of life and economic opportunities in Yukon communities.
The first project pitched by city administration was the protection of eroding sections of the east Yukon River bank near the fish hatchery.
The erosion threatens the safe use of parks and trails, as well as fish habitats.
The work would be similar to that completed in 2005 in other areas of the river.
The project is estimated to cost $500,000.
The second project involves expanding the Canada Games Centre’s waste-heat recovery system.
It uses the waste heat generated by the ice-making equipment at the arena to heat water at the pool, saving energy and reducing greenhouse gases.
With $250,000 in modifications, more heat can be recovered, according to staff.
The third plan was an expansion of the Porter Creek reservoir.
Residential, industrial and commercial areas serviced by the existing reservoir require more water.
The cost for engineering, project management and construction is estimated at $4 million.
City council unanimously approved all three applications.
The infrastructure fund has been used in the past.
Money was received to build the Mt. Sima ski chalet, which has been in use since the Canada Games.
Two other projects, a Hamilton Boulevard extension and underground infrastructure in Takhini North, have been approved for funding, but have not yet begun.
An application to purchase three new transit buses has been submitted, but hasn’t been approved.
“We have no idea when we’ll hear one way or another,” said city manager Dennis Shewfelt.
The application deadline is August 1.
If approved, the work will begin in 2008.
The federal and territorial governments each contribute $16 million to the fund.
The city will have to chip in one-third of all project costs.