More Recreational Opportunities for Bedford

Bedford will soon have more land to use as part of a larger $10- $15 million dollar project to build recreational facilities for the community.

The Rocky Lake Development Association will purchase 20 hectares of land for recreational purposes with the help of a $1.5 million loan from the provincial government.

"Bedford is one of the fastest growing areas of the province and it's very important we provide quality recreational facilities," said Barry Mason, head of the non-profit, community-based association. "This land purchase will allow us to pursue a number of recreational options for the Bedford-Waverley-Fall River area."

A four-year, fully repayable loan from the Office of Economic Development is secured through a mortgage on the land.

"Providing healthy living opportunities for families through recreational facilities will help develop vibrant communities," said Jamie Muir, acting Minister of Economic Development. "Such communities provide a quality of life attractive to businesses and their employees."

The Rocky Lake Development Association was formed to promote the development of community recreational infrastructure in the Bedford-Waverley-Fall River area. The Rocky Lake development currently includes upcoming construction of a three ice rink complex as well as a field house for children in basketball, indoor soccer and other indoor sports. The group also plans to build outdoor soccer fields and will consider upgrades like an all-weather field and tennis courts depending on the results of fundraising in the community.

A children's safety village, modeled on other similar facilities in Canada, is also part of the development.

"Local kids have been waiting for this for a long time," said Mr. Mason. "There are about 900 kids in hockey now, and many more wanting to play. This loan is a major milestone in helping our kids."