Fort Erie Wins Water Innovation Competition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Erie, ON—For National Public Works Week, the Town of Fort Erie is excited to announce that it won the PitcH20 competition. This new water innovation contest was held at the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative annual conference. With a focus on “The Future of Fresh Water,” the Town earned praise for its work against inflow and infiltration into wastewater systems.

The Town won PitcH20 for a pilot project that adds advanced technology called a Flexliner to the bottom of maintenance holes.  Flexliners create a watertight barrier to stop groundwater from getting in and wastewater from leaking out.

The Town piloted Flexliners near Black Creek, where the water table is high. Because Flexliners do not need a trench, the Town completed installation in just two days, with no large machines, no loud noises, and no damage to grassland nearby.

Black Creek is an important waterway connecting the Niagara River and the Great Lakes.  As a result of this project, Black Creek is better protected from wastewater contamination. 

Too much groundwater in sewer systems can overwhelm treatment plants, increase energy and chemical use, and cause sewer overflows.  By installing Flexliners, the Town is protecting wastewater infrastructure and freshwater sources from these risks.

“This initiative shows what innovation looks like at the municipal level,” said Manager of Water and Wastewater Tommy Peazel. “We’re protecting our infrastructure, cutting costs, and safeguarding our water system while extending its lifespan.”

“Everybody wins,” said Mayor Wayne Redekop. “The Region, the municipalities, and, most importantly, the rate payers. It just makes sense. It will free up capacity in our wastewater systems in Niagara. This is key to building more housing and protecting our Great Lakes from sewer overflows.”

Fort Erie Council is investing $400,000 to rehabilitate 17 more maintenance holes in the near future. Projected savings will provide a return on this investment in four years.  The Flexliner program will prevent up to 5,500 cubic meters of groundwater from entering the wastewater system annually.

“This isn’t just an infrastructure upgrade—it’s a sustainability strategy,” said CAO Chris McQueen. “Keeping groundwater out of our treatment system saves energy, reduces chemical use, and helps preserve our source water quality.”

Fort Erie’s innovative solution stood out for its practicality, measurable results and constructive approach. Many municipalities have aging infrastructure and face environmental pressures. Innovations like the winning entries at PitcH2O can improve the long-term management of critical water systems.

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