Province Makes Investment in Sport Infrastructure

People in the Region of Queens Municipality and surrounding communities will have access to more sport and recreation activities thanks to a $5-million investment in the construction of a new sport and recreation facility.

Premier Rodney MacDonald and Health Promotion and Protection Minister Barry Barnet made the announcement today, Oct. 17, in Liverpool. The funding will be used to help build a new $20 million multi-use sport and recreation facility.

"This is a unique opportunity and represents a significant investment in a new community-based sport and recreation facility," said Premier MacDonald.

"The dedication and commitment by the people of the Region of Queens Municipality made this a great investment. The municipality came to the table with more than half of the capital costs already in the bank. We are proud to support their goal and help bring a new sport facility to the region."

The new multi-use sport and recreation facility will include an NHL-sized ice surface, a four-lane 25-metre swimming pool, a smaller warm pool for seniors, families and therapeutic sessions, and a fitness center.

"This community has shown unprecedented support for building this facility and I am very pleased to recognize its commitment by making this contribution," said Mr. Barnet.

"Having accessible sport and recreation facilities are key to improving the health of our population. This facility moves us one step closer to becoming the healthiest and safety province in the country."

The municipality did significant planning and research to ensure this will be a sustainable facility for its community. It will oversee the construction and will own and operate the facility once it is complete.

"This generous, indeed tremendous, contribution by the province puts Queens on target for achieving our goal of a sport and recreation facility that will meet the wellness needs of our residents of all ages," said Region of Queens Municipality Mayor John Leefe. "Today demonstrates the province's commitment to rural communities and we feel confident that this new facility will not only contribute to the improved health of our citizens, but also improve the economic well-being of Queens."

Building Facilities and Infrastructure Together or B-FIT is the province's $50 million, 10-year major sport and recreation infrastructure investment program. This program is in addition to the $3 million invested annually in sport and recreation facility development grants.