Construction on Niagara-on-the-Lake’s sewage treatment project is coming to an end.

The wastewater treatment plant on Lakeshore Road is in the final commissioning phase. The Region is currently preparing for a 14-day run test in water, which is planned to happen at the end of January, beginning of February. Once the test is completed, the plant will run sewage for a month. If everything runs smoothly, the plant will be ready in mid-March.

“They’re in the testing phase right not so they’re running clear plain water through the system to make sure all the technical parts are working properly,” said Coun. Gary Burroughs.

Over the past few years, there have been a number of delays. According to Public Works Commissioner Ron Tripp, the delays were caused by the contractor.

“The contractor had numerous issues. They had issues with paying subcontractors as well as just resourcing,” he said.

Coun. Gary Zalepa Jr. said the project is expected to be completed within the budget.

“Any costs and overruns caused by delays are covered under the contract, and the taxpayer is protected by that.”

The cost for the project came in the amount of $43.2 million. Funding was provided by Niagara Region, the federal government and the province, each of which contributed $14.4 million.

Tripp said the Region will present updates on the project during a town council meeting on Feb. 4.