Residents of Princeton, B.C. are still grappling with the aftermath of an atmospheric river event that occurred over two years ago, causing damage worth millions of dollars and displacing thousands of people. However, there is hope on the horizon as the long-standing boil water notice in the town is expected to be lifted soon. The Town of Princeton has provided an update and timeline for the Memorial Park Wells 1 and 2 replacement project, which could lead to the rescinding of the notice. Bree Construction was awarded the project in May 2023 and all necessary permits and approvals are in place, with the construction of the facility and installation of underground infrastructure completed. The next steps involve the installation of mechanical and electrical components, tie-ins, and commissioning of the wells.
The water wells in Princeton were damaged in November 2021 when the Tulameen River overflowed, causing flooding throughout the town. Since then, about 70% of residents have had to boil their water or rely on a temporary water filling station for clean drinking water. Princeton resident Terry Greer expressed the inconvenience of having to visit the water filling station regularly, especially for his rental properties that are also under a boil water notice. The unexpected nature of the flooding, with 300 mm of water falling overnight, has left residents with no choice but to adapt to the situation. Project funding for the replacement of the wells was secured in June 2022, with an estimated cost of $4.5 million.
The town of Princeton has announced that they are close to rescinding the boil water notice, with an estimated timeline for commissioning of August to September 2024 for the Memorial Park Wells 1 and 2 replacement project. The Town of Princeton release stated that the necessary steps for the project are nearing completion, with construction finished and underground infrastructure in place. The upcoming tasks involve the installation of mechanical and electrical components inside the facility, as well as tie-ins and commissioning of the wells. This progress brings hope to residents who have been dealing with the repercussions of the atmospheric river event for the past few years.
Residents like Terry Greer have had to adjust their routines to accommodate the boil water notice, with regular visits to the water filling station to access clean drinking water. The town’s efforts to replace the damaged water wells and provide a more sustainable solution for clean water are a welcome development for the community. With the project funding in place and construction nearing completion, residents are optimistic about the prospect of having access to safe drinking water without the need for boiling. The impacts of the flooding event may still be felt, but the progress towards rescinding the boil water notice is a positive step forward for Princeton.
The damage caused by the atmospheric river event in Princeton has left a lasting impact on the town, with millions of dollars’ worth of damage and ongoing challenges for residents. The replacement of the damaged water wells is a significant project that could alleviate some of the burden on residents who have had to cope with the boil water notice for an extended period. The town’s commitment to completing the replacement project and providing access to clean drinking water is a testament to the resilience and determination of the community to overcome the challenges brought on by natural disasters. As the project nears completion, residents can look forward to the day when the boil water notice is rescinded, signaling a new chapter in the recovery process for Princeton.
