Port Hood Lift Station Replacement Update

Work continues on the replacement of the Port Hood Wastewater Lift Station, located at the corner of Main St. and Convent St., Port Hood

Over the past two weeks, crews have excavated trenches, assembled and installed piping, and connected the new infrastructure to the lift station system. This phase of the project is anticipated to be completed next week (June 22–26). Once this work is finished, the roadway will be graded and the area cleaned up.

Construction activities will then shift back to the lift station site.

Intermittent traffic control measures will remain in place on a portion of Main St. (in front of 375 Main St.), reducing traffic to a single lane for the duration of the project.

Motorists can expect minimal delays; however, they are encouraged to allow extra travel time when travelling through the area. Should the project schedule require additional time, an update will be provided.

The Municipality thanks residents and motorists for their patience and cooperation throughout this work.

To learn more about the Port Hood Lift Station Replacement Project, visit Port Hood Wastewater Lift Station Replacement | Municipality of the County of Inverness .

Beach Bingo 2026

Beach Cleanup Bingo Returns this July

The Municipality of Inverness County is excited to announce the return of Beach Cleanup Bingo for July 2026.

The game is a fun and rewarding way for residents and visitors of Inverness County to help keep local beaches and shorelines clean. It encourages beachgoers to collect common litter items, like bottle caps, lobster bands, rope, and plastics, while checking items off their card for a chance to win a grocery store gift card.

The goal is to reduce shoreline pollution, raise awareness, and have some fun while protecting Inverness County’s treasured beaches.

How to play

  • Download the bingo card below—save it to a mobile device to fill out digitally or print a copy at home
  • As you collect beach litter throughout July, mark items off on the bingo card
  • Once the card is complete, email it to waste@invernesscounty.ca by August 1, 2026, to be entered in the prize draw

Note: Beach cleanups must take place in Inverness County to be eligible.

Download Card Here

Prizes

  • Full bingo: $50 gift card
  • Mini bingo: Two $25 gift card

The draw will take place on August 5, 2026.

For any questions regarding Beach Cleanup Bingo, please contact Solid Waste Educator Nicole Latimer at nicole.latimer@invernesscounty.ca.

June Feedback Loop

June Feedback Loop Survey Focuses on the Environment

The Municipality of Inverness County is launching the June edition of The Feedback Loop survey today, June 18, with a focus on the environment and climate change.

The Feedback Loop is a monthly survey initiative designed to gather resident feedback on a variety of municipal topics throughout 2026. Surveys are released on the third Thursday of each month and invite residents to share their perspectives, experiences and ideas.

This month’s survey was created in partnership with Atlantic Coastal Action Program (ACAP) Cape Breton—a non-profit organization that the Municipality works closely with on climate-related projects and activities—to get a better understanding of residents’ awareness of environmental issues in Inverness County.

“We’re always grateful for the work that ACAP Cape Breton does in Inverness County,” says Warden Bonny MacIsaac, Municipality of Inverness County. “This feedback will help both the Municipality and ACAP understand residents’ awareness and priorities when it comes to the environment and climate change and help guide joint efforts going forward.”

“Inverness County has so much nature for us to learn from and enjoy,” say Monica Ragan, ACAP Cape Breton’s Program Manager for Western Cape Breton. “Using the results of this survey, we can better tailor programming to help residents connect with their environment in a fun and informative way.”

The survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete, and all responses remain anonymous.

Residents can complete the survey online, with paper copies available at the Municipal Administration Building, 375 Main St., Port Hood and various locations throughout the County.

The survey will close on July 15, with the next survey launching on July 16.

About ACAP Cape Breton

Founded in 1992, Atlantic Coastal Action Program (ACAP) Cape Breton works directly on practical solutions that help protect and restore the natural environment. They are a charitable not-for-profit organization staffed by a passionate team of environmental scientists and educators. Our work spans four core areas: Habitat Restoration, Environmental Monitoring, Environmental Education, and Waste Diversion.

ACAP and the Municipality collaborate on projects, programming, and initiatives related to climate change, water conservation, waste diversion, and more.

To access the survey, visit https://forms.office.com/r/8DgBTWysKH

For more information, including a list of locations where paper copies are available, visit The Feedback Loop | Municipality of the County of Inverness.

Whycocomagh Boil Water Advisory Lifted – June 12, 2026

The Municipality of Inverness County would like to notify users of the Whycocomagh water system that the Boil Water Advisory is no longer in effect as of today, June 12, at 3:30 p.m.

As a result of the advisory being lifted, the water voucher program will end, and outstanding vouchers will not be honoured. Any Whycocomagh residents who would like to collect water at the scheduled water pick-up today may still do so at the Whycocomagh Fire Department from 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

The Municipality would like to extend sincere thanks and appreciation to the Whycocomagh Volunteer Fire Department and Whycocomagh Co-op for partnering on resident support programs, the Cape Breton Regional Municipality for assisting with sourcing water when the advisory came into effect, and the businesses and residents of Whycocomagh for their patience, cooperation, and adaptability.

The Municipality will continue to work towards securing a sustainable long-term solution for Whycocomagh’s residents.

Phase One of Inverness Central Avenue Rebuild Project

Construction Set to Begin on Phase One of Inverness Central Avenue Rebuild Project

The Municipality of Inverness County is taking an important step toward modernizing critical infrastructure in the community of Inverness. Phase One of the Central Avenue Rebuild Project is set to begin late June following the recent award of a construction tender to Brilun Construction Ltd.

Central Avenue Rebuild is one component of a broader generational investment in infrastructure improvements throughout the community of Inverness. Related projects include:

Together, these investments are helping renew aging infrastructure, improve environmental performance, enhance safety and accessibility, and support future growth in the community.

With the tender awarded, Central Avenue Rebuild will involve a full reconstruction of Central Avenue, including:

  • New water and wastewater piping and associated infrastructure.
  • Replacement of an existing wastewater lift station located near the Central Avenue trail crossing.
  • Improved sidewalks, multi-use paths, and crosswalks.
  • Streetscape and beautification enhancements.
  • A fully reconstructed roadway with upgraded stormwater systems, delivered in partnership with the Nova Scotia Department of Public Works.

Project Timeline

  • Phase One extends from the intersection of Broad Cove Banks Road to James Street.
  • Construction is expected to begin late June and continue through December 2026.
  • Future phases are planned to continue from James Street to the Inverness County Centre for the Arts (ICCA) driveway and include additional infrastructure upgrades, such as a new wastewater lift station at the ICCA driveway. The timing and scope of future phases will depend on market volatility and contractor availability.

“Reaching this construction milestone reflects the dedication and cooperation of many partners who have worked together to make this project possible,” said Keith MacDonald, Chief Administrative Officer, Municipality of Inverness County. “From regulators at all levels of government to utility providers, landowners, and technical teams, a tremendous amount of planning and coordination has been required to get to this point. The start of construction is an important milestone and a testament to the collaborative effort behind this project. The Municipality is excited to see this project move into the construction phase.”

What Residents Can Expect

Construction will create temporary impacts for residents, businesses, commuters, and visitors. The Municipality will work closely with the contractor to minimize disruptions wherever possible and maintain access to homes, businesses, and community facilities throughout construction.

Additional information regarding construction schedules, traffic impacts, detours, and project milestones will be shared as details are confirmed.

MacDonald added, “This investment will replace aging infrastructure, improve safety and accessibility, and support the long-term needs of our community. While construction will bring temporary disruptions, we are committed to keeping residents informed every step of the way.”

Stay Informed

The Municipality will be hosting a public open house, with the date and location to be announced in the coming weeks.

Residents and businesses are encouraged to stay informed through the following resources:

Central Avenue Rebuild Project Webpage – www.invernesscounty.ca/CentralAveRebuild

  • Central source for project information.
  • Construction updates and project milestones.
  • Frequently asked questions.
  • Contact information for project inquiries.

Project Newsletter

Project Information Centre – Inverness Fire Hall, 15797 Central Ave., Inverness

  • Visit during posted hours to speak directly with a Municipal representative and ask questions about the project.
  • Drop-in dates and times will be shared once confirmed.

Project Funding

This Central Avenue Rebuild project is funded through a partnership between municipal, provincial, and federal governments under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.  The total for the project is $8,355,733, with the Municipality covering $1.87 million.

BACKGROUNDER

Why the Central Avenue Rebuild Project is Needed

2019 assessment of the Municipality’s water and wastewater systems identified significant concerns with aging infrastructure along the corridor.

The assessment found that key infrastructure assets had reached the end of their service life and were at increasing risk of failure. Without replacement, these conditions could lead to service disruptions, environmental impacts, and public health concerns.

Central Avenue Rebuild Project Benefits

Once complete, the project will provide:

  • Reliable water and wastewater services.
  • Reduced risk of service interruptions and infrastructure failures.
  • Improved pedestrian safety and accessibility.
  • Enhanced streetscape and community appearance.
  • Increased infrastructure capacity to support future growth and development.

Whycocomagh Boil Water Advisory Update – June 10, 2026

The Municipality of Inverness County is providing an update related to the ongoing Whycocomagh boil water advisory.

Leak Detection Work Ongoing:

Leak detection work will continue throughout today, June 10, and likely into the overnight hours. Leak detection work involves looking for areas where water is leaking from the system by checking for drops in pressure or certain sounds. Members of the team will be wearing high visibility vests.  When this work is underway, water pressure may be reduced temporarily.

Water Pick-Up & Voucher Programs Reminder

Water distribution and voucher pick-up will continue until the boil water advisory is lifted.

Upcoming Pick-Up Dates:

  • Wednesday, June 10
  • Friday, June 12

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Location: Whycocomagh Volunteer Fire Department, 9519 Trans Canada Highway, Whycocomagh

Impacted residents may collect one four-litre jug of drinking water per person, to a maximum of three jugs per household:

• One-person household: one jug (4 litres)
• Two-person household: two jugs (8 litres)
• Three or more people: three jugs (12 litres)

Please note: Friday, June 12 will be a double pick-up day to ensure residents have enough drinking water for the weekend.

Residents may also collect a water voucher during the distribution period. Vouchers can be redeemed at the Whycocomagh Co-op for bottled drinking water.

Residents requiring assistance with water or voucher pick-up are asked to contact the Municipality’s Public Works Department at 1-866-258-0223, option 4.

Updates will continue to be shared on the Municipality’s website and Facebook page. Residents are encouraged to check these sources regularly for the latest information.

To learn more, visit https://invernesscounty.ca/whycocomaghboilwateradvisory/

Whycocomagh Boil Water Advisory Update – June 8, 2026

The Municipality of Inverness County is providing an update related to the boil water advisory affecting users of the Whycocomagh Water System.
Leak Detection:
On Tuesday, June 9, residents may notice members of the Municipal Public Works team conducting leak detection work in the community. Leak detection work involves looking for areas where water is leaking from the system by checking for drops in pressure or certain sounds. Members of the team will be wearing high visibility vests. This work will take place between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. the following morning, when water usage tends to be lower. When this work is underway, water pressure may be reduced temporarily.
Water Pick-Up & Voucher Programs:
Water distribution and voucher pick-up will continue until the boil water advisory is lifted.
Details for the week of Jun 8-12:
Dates:
Monday, June 8
Wednesday, June 10
Friday, June 12
Time: 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Location: Whycocomagh Volunteer Fire Department, 9519 Trans Canada Highway, Whycocomagh
Impacted residents may collect one four-litre jug of drinking water per person, to a maximum of three jugs per household:
One-person household: one jug (4 litres)
Two-person household: two jugs (8 litres)
Three or more people: three jugs (12 litres)
Please note, this amount will double on Friday to ensure residents have enough water over the weekend.
Residents may also collect a water voucher during the distribution period. Vouchers can be redeemed at the Whycocomagh Co-op for bottled drinking water.
Business Support Program:
Businesses are asked to reach out to the Municipality’s Public Works Department to arrange water drop-off, by calling 1-866-258-0223, option 4 or email Publicworks@invernesscounty.ca .
Reminders:
Residents requiring assistance with water or voucher pick-up are asked to contact the Municipality’s Public Works Department at 1-866-258-0223, option 4.
Updates will continue to be shared on invernesscounty.ca and on the Municipality’s Facebook page. Residents are encouraged to check these sources regularly for the latest information.
Residents with additional questions may contact the Municipality’s Public Works Department at 1-866-258-0223, option 4 or email Publicworks@invernesscounty.ca .

Port Hood Lift Station Replacement Traffic Disruption to Continue

Port Hood, Nova Scotia – Work continues on the replacement of the Port Hood Wastewater Lift Station located at the corner of Main St. and Convent St.

Traffic control measures were put in place on May 25, reducing a portion of Main St. (in front of 375 Main St.) to one lane of traffic. These traffic control measures are expected to remain in place for the next two weeks (until June 19).

Motorists can expect minimal delays; however, they are encouraged to allow extra travel time when driving through the area.  If additional time is required, an update will be provided.

The Municipality thanks residents and motorists for their patience and cooperation during this work.

To learn more about the Port Hood Lift Station Replacement Project, visit Port Hood Wastewater Lift Station Replacement | Municipality of the County of Inverness .

Boil Water Advisory Expected to Remain in Place Until June 19

Boil Water Advisory for Whycocomagh Expected to Remain in Place Until June 19

The Municipality of Inverness County is providing an update on the boil water advisory affecting users of the Whycocomagh Water System.

As of June 4, the boil water advisory remains in place. Following a recent inspection of the wells, it is anticipated that the advisory will remain in effect until approximately June 19.

“We understand the impact this advisory is having on residents and families in our community, and we appreciate the patience and understanding that everyone has shown,” said Melanie Beaton, Deputy CAO, Municipality of Inverness County, “While this update means the advisory will remain in place longer than we had hoped, identifying the source of the problem is an important step toward resolving it. We remain committed to keeping residents informed and restoring normal water service as soon as it is safe to do so.”

Cause of the Advisory

The Whycocomagh Water System is supplied by two wells (Production Well 1 and Production Well 2) that were installed in the 1970s and are approximately 300 feet deep.

A camera inspection conducted earlier this week revealed cracks and holes in the casing of Production Well 2, approximately 160 feet below ground.

As a result, silt and sediment are entering the well and causing turbidity (cloudiness).

The Solution

Short-term: The short-term solution involves shutting down Production Well 2 and installing an ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system at the Whycocomagh Water Treatment Plant to treat water from Production Well 1 and ensure it is safe for consumption. In addition, a consultant will investigate the water system for leaks requiring repair.

Long-term: A senior hydrologist is currently identifying a suitable location for two new water supply wells near the existing wells. Once a site is selected, the new wells will be drilled.

Expected Timeline

Production Well 2 has been isolated from the system.

Installation of the UV disinfection system may take approximately two weeks, pending contractor availability. Once the system is installed and water testing confirms compliance with environmental regulations, the boil water advisory will be lifted.

It is too early to predict a timeline for the long-term solution.

Support for Residents

The Municipality will continue to provide drinking water and water vouchers to Whycocomagh Water System users. To help ensure residents have an adequate supply of water for the weekend, the upcoming water distribution will be considered a double collection.

Water Pick-Up Details

Date: Friday, June 5
Time: 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Location: Whycocomagh Volunteer Fire Department, 9519 Trans Canda Highway, Whycocomagh

Impacted residents may collect two four-litre jugs of drinking water per person, to a maximum of six jugs per household:

  • One-person household: two jugs (8 litres)
  • Two-person household: four jugs (16 litres)
  • Three or more people: six jugs (24 litres)

Water Voucher Program

In addition to the water pick-up program, the Municipality continues to partner with the Whycocomagh Co-op to provide water vouchers.

During the water pick-up, residents may collect a voucher that can be redeemed at the Whycocomagh Co-op (9402 Highway 105, Whycocomagh) for bottled drinking water.

The voucher program provides one four-litre jug of drinking water per person, to a maximum of three jugs per household:

  • One-person household: one jug (4 litres)
  • Two-person household: two jugs (8 litres)
  • Three or more people: three jugs (12 litres)

Reminders

  • Residents requiring assistance with water or voucher pick-up are asked to contact the Municipality’s Public Works Department at 1-866-258-0223, option 4.
  • Updates will continue to be shared on invernesscounty.ca and on the Municipality’s Facebook page. Residents are encouraged to check these sources regularly for the latest information.
  • Residents with additional questions may contact the Municipality’s Public Works Department at 1-866-258-0223, option 4 or email Publicworks@invernesscounty.ca .
  • To learn more, visit Whycocomagh Boil Water Advisory Update | Municipality of the County of Inverness .

Background

The Municipality of Inverness County issued a boil water advisory on May 22, 2026 for the Whycocomagh Water System due to elevated turbidity levels that caused slight discolouration of the water. As a precaution, residents are advised to boil water before using it for drinking or food preparation.

Whycocomagh Boil Water Advisory Update – June 1, 2026

Whycocomagh, N.S. – The boil water advisory remains in effect for users of the Whycocomagh water system as of June 1, 2026.

 

To support Whycocomagh water system users, the Municipality is continuing its drinking water pick-up, and water voucher programs, hosting two opportunities to collect this week.

 

Water Pick-Up Details:

Dates: Monday, June 1, and Wednesday, June 3, 2026

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Location: Whycocomagh Volunteer Fire Department, 9519 Trans Canda Highway, Whycocomagh

 

Impacted residents may collect one four-litre jugs of drinking water per person, to a maximum of three jugs per household:

  • One-person household: one jug (4 litres)
  • Two-person household: two jugs (8 litres)
  • Three or more people: three jugs (12 litres)

 

Water Voucher Program: 

During the June 1 and June 3 water pick-ups, residents may collect a one-time use voucher to be redeemed at the Whycocomagh Co-op (9402 Highway 105, Whycocomagh) for bottled water.

 

The voucher program will provide one four-litre jug of drinking water per person, to a maximum of three jugs per household:

  • One-person household: one jug (4 litres)
  • Two-person household: two jugs (8 litres)
  • Three or more people: three jugs (12 litres)

 

Vouchers may only be redeemed at the Whycocomagh Co-op location.

 

Reminders: 

  • Residents requiring assistance with water or voucher pick-up are asked to contact the Municipality’s Public Works Department at 1-866-258-0223, option 4.
  • If the boil water advisory remains in effect on Friday, June 5, arrangements will be made for another water pick-up.
  • Updates will continue to be shared on invernesscounty.ca and on the Municipality’s Facebook page. Residents are encouraged to check these sources regularly for the latest information.
  • Residents with additional questions may contact the Municipality’s Public Works Department at 1-866-258-0223, option 4 or email Publicworks@invernesscounty.ca.

 

The Municipality thanks residents for their continued patience while staff investigate and work to resolve this issue.