The Ontario government is investing $9.6 million to upgrade water and storm systems in Embrun, paving the way for new housing and sustainable community growth.
The funding comes through the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund (HEWSF), part of the province’s Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program (MHIP).
The project includes the reconstruction of storm sewers and the installation of a new watermain along 2.5 kilometres of Notre-Dame Street, from the St-Guillaume roundabout eastward. These upgrades are expected to strengthen Embrun’s water and stormwater systems while supporting the township’s long-term development goals.
“This investment is about more than infrastructure. It is about supporting the families of Russell Township and preparing our community for the future,” said Stéphane Sarrazin, MPP for Glengarry–Prescott–Russell. “By upgrading the water and storm systems, we are laying the foundation for new homes while protecting the quality of life that residents value so much. These improvements will not only support growth but also ensure that our community remains safe, resilient, and ready for generations to come.”
Mike Tarnowski, Mayor of Russell Township, welcomed the announcement, calling it a “historic” investment. “(This) is a clear recognition from the province of the importance of this project to our community and our region. It also reflects their confidence in the collaborative approach we’ve taken with the United Counties—working together to ensure our infrastructure is strong, resilient, and ready for the future. This is about maintaining the high quality of life our residents expect, through careful planning that reflects the character of our community. It’s a proud moment for Russell Township, and a strong example of how leadership and partnership can deliver real, lasting value,” he said.
The United Counties of Prescott and Russell (UCPR) also hailed the funding. “The challenges related to funding infrastructure projects are numerous, and it is thanks to such provincial investments that we are able to carry out this important project for our community,” said Yves Laviolette, 2025 Warden of the UCPR.
The provincial government says the MHIP is a key part of its plan to meet housing targets and strengthen infrastructure across Ontario. To date, the program has enabled about 800,000 new homes provincewide.
