ATCO Pipelines has reached an agreement with the Samson Cree Nation that will see the two parties participate on the replacement of a 219 mm (eight-inch) pipeline running through the First Nation.
This pipeline is a critical piece of a larger network that provides natural gas service to communities between Red Deer and Viking, including Lacombe, Ponoka, Camrose, Wetaskiwin and the four First Nations at Hobbema. The original pipeline was constructed in 1946.
“We have worked very closely with the Samson Cree Nation to develop a comprehensive agreement that will provide long-term benefits to the community, while also allowing ATCO Pipelines to upgrade a critical piece of infrastructure that serves several central Alberta communities,” said Brendan Dolan, president of ATCO Pipelines.
“This agreement builds upon ATCO’s track record of developing mutually-beneficial relationships with Aboriginal groups across Canada and ATCO Pipelines’ commitment to our First Nations partners in the area.”
The agreement also outlines a commitment by ATCO Pipelines to explore employment and training opportunities with the First Nation related to this project. In addition, ATCO Pipelines will invest in the community through its support of the Samson Cree Nation Education Trust Fund.
“The Samson Cree Nation values this agreement with ATCO Pipelines and looks forward to building a productive relationship over many years,” said Chief Marvin Yellowbird. “Through this agreement and ATCO’s support of our initiatives we can continue to build a strong and vibrant community.”