Local Economy to Benefit from Upgrades to Athletics Centre
News Release
Support for the Acadia Athletics Complex positions Wolfville as top destination to host sporting events
(Pictured in the 1st photo, from left to right: Chris Callbeck, Acadia University VP Administration and Finance, Andreas Dutkewych, Project Manager with Sodexo, and Minister Brison. Minister Brison and Mr. Callbeck are pictured with Scott Roberts, Executive Director of Communications & Marketing at Acadia University, in the second photo.)
December 5, 2017 – Wolfville, NS – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Investments in local infrastructure provide long-term benefits that build the economies of Atlantic Canadian communities and strengthen the middle class. That’s why the Government of Canada is investing $250,000 in the Acadia Athletics Complex to improve its ability to attract and host national and international sporting events that draw tourists to the region and generate significant economic benefits for the entire community.
The funding was announced today by the Honourable Scott Brison, President of the Treasury Board and Member of Parliament for Kings-Hants, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).
The project supports interior upgrades to the Acadia Athletics Complex that will ensure clean, safe and attractive facilities for athletes, students, spectators and residents of surrounding communities. Funding for this project is being provided through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF).
This investment aligns with the Government of Canada’s commitment to drive economic growth in Atlantic Canada through the Atlantic Growth Strategy. By supporting strategic infrastructure initiatives, communities will be well-equipped to capitalize on emerging opportunities, such as sports tourism, that contribute to the regional economy.
Quotes
“The renewed Acadia Athletics Complex will position the University as a desirable venue to host major sporting events, generating significant economic activity in the area. This investment will help strengthen the middle class and support community vitality.”
- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
“As one of the largest employers in the Valley region, Acadia University is a catalyst for economic prosperity. The Athletics Complex serves the university and is also heavily used by the general public from Wolfville and surrounding communities. This funding will improve facilities including the locker rooms that have not been upgraded since the building opened in the 1960’s, and make Wolfville better able to compete to host more sports and other major events.”
- The Honourable Scott Brison, President of the Treasury Board and Member of Parliament for Kings-Hants
"This is so significant for Wolfville and Kings County. Acadia and our community have so few degrees of separation, and this funding allows us to provide locker rooms that our user groups will appreciate, take advantage, and be proud of. Beyond that, through our new Events Services strategic planning around ‘Destination Acadia’, which involves attracting outside groups to our campus and quite frankly one of the most beautiful places in Canada, this is critical. People from across the country will continue to find Acadia University a magical place, and the Town of Wolfville and Kings County will benefit from an economic development standpoint through our outstanding campus facilities. We couldn't be more appreciative of ACOA's contribution to our Acadia Athletics Complex."
- Kevin Dickie, Executive Director, Athletics & Community Events
Quick Facts
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Nova Scotia’s sports tourism market is a $134 million industry.
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The Acadia Athletics Complex is the largest multi-sport complex in western Nova Scotia.
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With more than 3,000 full-time students and 500 employees, Acadia University is one of the largest employers and generators of economic activity in the region.
Contacts
Alex Smith
Director of Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-426-9417 / 902-830-3839 (cell)
alex.smith@canada.ca
Scott Roberts
Executive Director, Communications & Marketing
Acadia University
902-585-1705
scott.roberts@acadiau.ca
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