Sport and Recreation Facility Grants Announced

SPORT/RECREATION COMMISSION--Sport and Recreation Facility Grants Announced

More than 70 Recreation Facility Development grants worth roughly $1.7 million were announced today, June 5, by Rodney MacDonald, Minister of Sport and Recreation. He made the announcement at École Rockingham School in Halifax, which is receiving a grant for playground upgrades.

"Our aim is to encourage our children to engage in regular physical activity. It will benefit their health. I view this investment in community facilities as an investment in their health," said Mr. MacDonald. "Kids need places to play, to be active. This money for playgrounds, ball fields, tennis courts, trails, pools and arenas will make a difference."

The Sport and Recreation Commission's Recreation Facility Development Program provides up to one-third of a project's capital cost. Communities must form creative working partnerships with agencies and organizations to acquire the remaining funding.

The funding announced today will support a range of projects, from improving existing sport and recreation facilities to building new trails. They include:

• assistance for renovations to eight arenas;
• enhancements to 11 community halls, including assistance to make these facilities more accessible;
• assistance with 12 playground projects;
• development of a new YMCA Wellness and Fitness Centre in Bridgewater;
• assistance in the replacement of the Centennial Pool ceiling in Truro;
• repairs and upgrades to the Acadia University swimming pool; and
• funding for nine trail development projects.

The program helps municipalities and community groups plan, construct, renovate, conserve or acquire facilities for public recreation purposes.

Projects eligible for assistance include community centres, pools, sport facilities, parks, playgrounds, trails and other outdoor recreation facilities.