Truro Gears Up for World Junior ‘A’ Challenge
News Release
Government of Canada Invests in the Rath Eastlink Community Centre to prepare for major tournament
April 19, 2017 - Truro, NS - Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Smart, targeted investments in community infrastructure help to drive local economic growth and strengthen the middle class. That is why the Government of Canada is investing $352,000 in the Town of Truro. Upgrades to the Rath Eastlink Community Centre (RECC) will enable the facility to host major events such as the 2017 World Junior A Hockey Challenge. Previous editions of the World Junior A Hockey Challenge have generated an economic impact of over $3 million for host communities.
The support was announced today by Bill Casey, Member of Parliament for Cumberland - Colchester, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA. Funding is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF).
This project will upgrade the dehumidification system at the RECC to maintain optimal ice conditions and air quality within the building. As well, funding is allocated for costs associated with hosting and marketing a major sporting event. With an NHL-sized arena floor and 2,500 fixed bowl seats, the RECC is the largest indoor venue in Colchester County.
Since 2013, the RECC has successfully hosted over 30 sporting events, consumer shows and concerts with over 50,000 people in attendance. The Municipality of the County of Colchester is also providing $166,440 toward this project.
Quotes
“The Government of Canada is committed to making investments that will strengthen our middle class. Support for the Rath Eastlink Community Centre will generate sustainable economic activity for the Town of Truro as a major events venue. Local businesses and services will benefit from increased visitation to the area.”
- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Science, Innovation and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
“The Rath Eastlink Community Centre is an important hub in Truro that improves residents’ quality of life by providing recreational facilities and supporting events that generate economic activity in the area. The RECC is a source of community pride and we look forward to utilizing it for many years to come.”
- Bill Casey, Member of Parliament for Cumberland-Colchester
“As Mayor of Colchester County, I’m proud to be part of such a collaborative effort that contributes to the wonderful quality of life we enjoy here. The support of the Federal government for these RECC upgrades is very much appreciated”.
- Mayor Blair, Municipality of the County of Colchester
“As A Board Member of the RECC and Mayor of the Town of Truro I am extremely grateful for the announcement today from ACOA. It's one more major step to improve our ability to host events all year round at the Rath Eastlink Community Centre that will give confidence to event organizers in looking to Truro to host their major event! It's partnership with ACOA that make venues like this work to full capacity!”
- Mayor Bill Mills, Town of Truro
“This investment will greatly enhance the RECC’s ability to attract and deliver a wide variety of major event opportunities throughout all 4 seasons. The end result will reflect positive economic development for our community while further positioning our recreation and events facility amongst the top in Atlantic Canada”.
- Matt Moore, General Manager, Rath Eastlink Community Centre (RECC)
Contacts
Alex Smith
Director of Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-426-9417 / 902-830-3839 (cell)
E-mail: alex.smith@canada.ca
Mike Dolter
Chief Administrative Officer
Town of Truro
902-895-4427 / 902-956-1475
E-mail: mdolter@truro.ca