Metro Vancouver announces independent review of North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant

Metro Vancouver has announced an independent review of the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant in response to escalating costs and significant public concern. This decision comes as the project’s budget has surged to nearly $4 billion from an initial estimate of $700 million.

Announcing the review, Board Chair George V. Harvie acknowledged the public’s concerns about the escalating costs of the plant.

“We at the Metro Vancouver Board are acutely aware of the concerns around how the updated costs to deliver the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant Program will impact residents of this region,” Harvie said. He highlighted that three separate cost estimates were conducted last year, considering factors such as market conditions, inflation, interest rates, and hiring a new contractor.​

Last year, Metro Vancouver established a task force to review the project’s history and explore completion options. The task force, which held closed meetings due to the sensitive nature of the discussions, informed the final cost estimate. Despite these efforts, public skepticism about Metro Vancouver’s cost management has persisted, prompting Metro Vancouver to initiate the independent review. “Since announcing the cost estimate, we have heard concerns about whether Metro Vancouver manages costs effectively for the public. We take these concerns seriously,” he added.

Metro Vancouver Commissioner and CAO Jerry Dobrovolny outlined the steps to improve project delivery practices since his appointment in late 2019. These measures include the creation of a project delivery department and the restructuring of procurement and real estate services. Dobrovolny expressed confidence in the process improvements and welcomed the independent review, noting its importance in maintaining public trust.​

The project, which has faced numerous challenges, including contractor disputes and legal battles, will significantly impact North Shore residents. Homeowners in the area will bear a substantial financial burden, with annual utility bills expected to reach $590, far higher than in other parts of Metro Vancouver.​

Local leaders and residents have voiced their frustration, calling for greater transparency and accountability. North Vancouver Councillor Catherine Pope has called for a thorough investigation into the project. The independent review aims to comprehensively assess the project’s cost management and delivery strategies, ultimately restoring public confidence and ensuring the project’s successful completion.