Annapolis Valley Gets Investment for Sport, Recreation

People in Annapolis Valley will soon have access to new and improved sport and recreation facilities thanks to a $400,000 investment by the province.

Barry Barnet, Minister of Health Promotion and Protection, announced today, April 24, that the money will be used to expand Acadia University's outdoor track and field facility at Raymond Field, which will be accessible to people across the Valley region. The investment was the second in a series of announcements planned across the province over the next two weeks as part of a $50-million, 10-year infrastructure investment plan.

"As we continue to promote the benefits of being physically active, we have a responsibility to help support communities to construct new facilities across the province that are safe and accessible to everyone," said Mr. Barnet. "This track and field facility will provide families in the Annapolis Valley with new opportunities to join together, build community spirit, and be physically active."

The expansion will provide a quality training ground for high-performance sport such as soccer and football, and be accessible for other recreation activities such as walking and running, and events such as summer camps.

"Acadia University and the province of Nova Scotia share the common goal of promoting healthy and active lifestyles," said Dr. Gail Dinter-Gottlieb, president and vice-chancellor of Acadia University. "I am pleased the province will invest in the expansion and modernization of Raymond Field and its amenities. Once completed, this facility will be a better resource for athletes in our community and all of western Nova Scotia."

The province's $50-million, 10-year sport and recreation infrastructure investment plan is in addition to the $3 million invested annually in recreation facility development grants.