Antigonish County to Benefit from Facility Upgrades

Government of Canada Supports Infrastructure Improvements at Keppoch Mountain and Mini-Trail Community Centre

 

October 16, 2016 – Antigonish, N.S. – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Sean Fraser, Member of Parliament for Central Nova, today announced two contributions totaling $99,290, through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP150), for recreational projects in Antigonish County. MP Fraser made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).

An $88,900 non-repayable contribution will support the Positive Action for the Keppoch Society as it completes improvements to existing outdoor park infrastructure at Keppoch Mountain, including the addition of change rooms, covered rest areas and washrooms; the expansion of existing trails; and, improved signage. This investment enhances the public’s ability to enjoy active living in the outdoors through mountain biking, hiking, snowshoeing, coasting, festivals and more. Additional support for the project includes $77,930 from the Municipality of the County of Antigonish, $7,000 from the Antigonish Kinsmen Club and $4,000 from Antigonish Medical Associates Inc.

A $10,390 non-repayable contribution will also support the Mini-Trail Community Centre Association as it performs efficiency upgrades to the Centre, including the installation of energy efficient heat pumps for supplementary heating and air conditioning. This investment supports the community in adopting a modern, efficient heating and cooling technology, which will reduce the operational costs and environmental footprint of its community centre. The facility is the only community centre in the area and hosts training sessions, wellness activities, weddings, and special events for community members. The Mini-Trail Community Centre Association is contributing $10,390 to this project.

Quotes

“The Government of Canada is pleased to invest in community infrastructure improvements in Antigonish County as part of a nation-wide focus on improving the communities in which we live, work and play. Healthy communities are a large part of our focus as we work to renovate, expand, and improve existing community, cultural and recreational infrastructure.”  

-       The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

“Antigonish County is fortunate to have spaces like Keppoch Mountain and the Mini-Trail Community Centre that provide a variety of benefits for their respective communities. These facilities support opportunity and growth by providing places for people to come together, share ideas and be active.”

-       Sean Fraser, Member of Parliament for Central Nova 

“We are just thrilled and honoured to be able to celebrate Canada’s 150^th anniversary in such a positive and progressive way. Keppoch Mountain has always been a bright beacon of community cooperation and cohesion. This outstanding contribution by the Government of Canada, announced today, is generously matched by our own local community. Through this exemplary partnership, we will continue on our bold quest to make Keppoch Mountain a leader in outdoor recreation, health promotion, environmental stewardship, community and economic development and accessibility.”

-       Mary Coyle, Vice-President, Positive Action for the Keppoch Society

“On behalf of the Mini-Trail Community Centre, I would like to thank ACOA for this important, valued support. Not only will this investment bring modern, efficient heating and cooling to our Centre and reduce our environmental footprint, but we are certain that this initiative will help make the Mini-Trail a Centre of choice for local events and an even stronger gathering place in our community, along the sunrise trail and throughout Antigonish town and County.”

-       Elaine Robertson, Chair, Mini-Trail Community Centre Association

Associated Links 

• Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program
• Keppoch Mountain
• Mini-Trail Community Centre

 
Contacts

Alex Smith
Director of Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Phone: 902-426-9417 / 902-830-3839 (cell)
E-mail: alex.smith@canada.ca

Dr. John Chiasson
President
Positive Action for the Keppoch Society
Phone: (902) 870-7034 (cell)
E-mail: john.chiasson@eastlink.ca 

Elaine Robertson
Chair
Mini-Trail Community Centre Association
Phone: (902) 863-6600 x1002 / (902) 968-1452 (cell)
E-mail: elaine.robertson@creditu.ca

 

Background

The CIP150 is providing up to $300 million nationally over two years to support projects to rehabilitate, renovate and expand community and recreational infrastructure as part of the Government of Canada’s activities to honour Canada’s 150^th anniversary of Confederation. The program is expected to boost economic activity through infrastructure investments, build community-based partnerships, while supporting the Government’s priorities to promote a clean-growth economy and ensure a better future for Indigenous peoples.