Clearwater County, Alberta, August 29, 2024 — The federal government and O’Chiese First Nation are investing more than $17.1 million to build a new bridge to the community and make a central community building more energy efficient.

The new two-lane Baptiste River Bridge will replace a single-lane bridge – that’s been there for 100 years – on one of two main access roads into the community. The project will also realign roads leading to and from the bridge and also put in measures to protect it from the impacts of floods.

The upgrades to the local Community Services Building will include improved lighting, water, heat, and ventilation for more efficient energy use which will help the community reduce costs while making the facility more environmentally friendly. As a main hub in the O’Chiese First Nation, the Community Services Building provides programs and services including recreation, childcare, healthcare, and food and clothing for vulnerable community members.