Municipality of East Hants will benefit from new community playground to help bring people back to public spaces safely

News release

Government of Canada fueling community revitalization and creating the conditions for local economies to thrive as they rebound from the effects of COVID-19

June 27, 2022 · Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Canadian cities and towns flourish when they have community public spaces to promote social interaction and physical activity and provide access to recreational programs and facilities. These amenities are integral to the overall well-being of individuals, families and communities. Our economic recovery is closely linked to the vitality of our local communities and their shared spaces.

Today, Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for Kings–Hants, announced a non-repayable investment of $150,000 through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) for the Municipality of East Hants. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA.

This support will allow the Municipality of East Hants to install a new, accessible playground at the Shubenacadie River Park. The project also includes work to improve drainage and complete paving and landscaping around the play area, making it safer and more appealing to residents and visitors.

The CCRF was launched in June 2021. The Fund provides $500 million over two years to Canada’s regional development agencies (RDAs) to invest in shared and inclusive public spaces. As public health restrictions ease, the Government of Canada remains committed to investing in shared spaces to make them safer, greener and more accessible. This in turn will stimulate local economies, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for Canadians.

Quotes

“Strong, vibrant communities in Nova Scotia are a critical part of a robust and inclusive economic recovery. Investing in shared public spaces like the Shubenacadie River Park in the Municipality of East Hants helps revitalize local economies, boosts tourism, creates jobs, and gives residents a place to come together safely.”
-       The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA

“As East Hants continues to grow, it’s crucial to have recreational infrastructure in place that is accessible for everyone. This new playground at the Shubenacadie River Park will serve as a gathering spot for the community, bringing families and youth together for generations to come.”
-       Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for Kings-Hants

“On behalf of Council, we are delighted to see this project come to life with partnership funding. The new playground will create more accessible recreation opportunities for children and youth in East Hants, in an area that is symbolic and meaningful to our community.“
-     Eleanor Roulston, Warden, Municipality of East Hants 

Quick facts

  • Shubenacadie River Park was established in the early 1900s and has long served as a central gathering point for residents who routinely take advantage of the facility to gather for community events. 

  • With 360 metres of river frontage and access to the community’s only playground, the area is also a draw for visitors who wish to enjoy the natural beauty and participate in recreational activities. 

  • CCRF funding will support two major streams of activity:
    o   adapt community spaces and assets so that they may be used safely in accordance with local public health guidelines,
    o   build or improve community spaces to encourage Canadians to re-engage in and explore their communities and regions. 

  • Eligible recipients will include not-for-profit organizations; rural, municipal or regional governments; Indigenous groups and communities; and public sector bodies that provide municipal-type infrastructure. 

  • Priority may be given to projects that encourage the participation of underrepresented groups and take into consideration the unique challenges of rural and remote communities. 

  • For more information on the application process, eligibility criteria and eligible expenses, or to apply for the CCRF, reach out to your regional development agency.

  • Canada’s regional development agencies are continuing to deliver targeted support for economic recovery in the region. Application intake is open through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency for the Canada Community Revitalization Fund, Jobs and Growth Fund, Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative and Tourism Relief Fund.

Associated links

Contacts

Marianne Blondin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Official Languages and of the
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Marianne.Blondin@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Lauren Sinclair
Communications Director
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
782-641-6365
Lauren.Sinclair@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Juliann Cashen
Communications Officer
Municipality of East Hants
902-883-6219
jcashen@easthants.ca

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