Oland Stadium Upgrades – On the Edge of Your Seat Excitement
News Release
Government of Canada Invests in Infrastructure Enhancements at the Oland Stadium
July 31, 2017 - Antigonish, 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 $500,000 in the Oland Stadium at St. Francis Xavier University. Upgrades to the Oland Stadium will enhance the facility’s capacity to host major events such as the 2018 Canadian Special Olympics.
The support was announced today by Sean Fraser, Member of Parliament for Central Nova, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). Funding for the project is being provided through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF).
This project will replace aging outdoor bleachers in order to meet safety standards required to secure and host national sporting events. These types of events draw tourists to the region and have significant economic and societal benefits for surrounding communities.
The Province of Nova Scotia, through the Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage, announced $1 million in support toward this project in March 2017.
Quotes
“The Government of Canada is committed to making investments that strengthen our middle class. Support for the Oland Stadium will generate sustainable economic activity for Antigonish as a major events venue. Investments such as this one enhance and improve cultural and community infrastructure.”
- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Science, Innovation and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
“St. FX is already one of the largest employers and economic generators in the Antigonish area. By furthering their capacity to host larger events and tournaments, neighbouring businesses will experience increased activity resulting from an influx of visitors. Local leadership teaming up with the Government of Canada is creating vibrant and robust communities that we can all be proud of.”
- Sean Fraser, Member of Parliament for Central Nova
“The support of our federal government has been a key component in our process of upgrading and improving the Oland Stadium facility. This centre is the health and wellness heart of northern Nova Scotia. Students, athletes, and families from around the region engage in physical activity, sport and attend community events at the Oland Stadium.”
- Dr. Kent MacDonald, President & Vice-Chancellor, St. Francis Xavier University
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
Cindy MacKenzie
Manager, Media Relations
St. Francis Xavier University
902-867-2401/902-872-0612
Email: cmackenz@stfx.ca
Page details
- Date modified: