Windsor will start in 2019 a massive series of projects — including upgrades to pumping stations, sewer replacements, and even rebuilding roads — all aimed at reducing basement flooding in the east end.

Windsor will soon embark on one of the largest sewer projects in the city’s history, an $89.3-million mega-plan to tackle flooding in east Windsor over the next 10 years.

On Monday Mayor Drew Dilkens announced that the city will start in 2019 on a massive series of projects — including upgrades to pumping stations, sewer replacements, and even rebuilding roads — all aimed at reducing basement flooding in the hardest-hit area of the city. The plan was approved by council Monday night on the consent agenda.

“We are going to move forward,” Dilkens said during a press conference at city hall, at which Ward 6 Coun. Jo-Anne Gignac also attended. “This is important for the city, it’s important for the east side.”

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Dilkens said the city will apply for $32.1 million in funding from Infrastructure Canada’s Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund, which provides grants of up to 40 per cent of a municipality’s costs for such work.

Either way, however, Dilkens said he plans to forge ahead with the complex undertaking.

“In the event that we don’t get any of the money through that program, we will find a way to get these projects done, guaranteed,” Dilkens said.

Gignac, whose ward encompasses much of where the work will be done, considers the proposal welcome news.

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