Barton and surrounding communities will benefit from new accessible and inclusive playground and park to help bring people back to public spaces safely

From: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

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

July 7, 2022 · Barton, 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, the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA, announced an investment of $105,000 through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) for the Brighton and Barton Volunteer Fire Department.

This support will allow the fire department to build a fully accessible and inclusive playground as well as a community park with green space, picnic tables, garden beds, a gazebo and a walking path. These will be welcoming outdoor spaces for people of all ages and abilities to participate in activities promoting physical, social and emotional wellbeing. The playground and park will help attract families to the area and provide a new venue for community events, wellness groups, and fundraisers.

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 this playground and wellness park in Barton 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

“Nova Scotia’s volunteer fire departments build and maintain valued communal gathering spaces, especially in rural communities. This investment in an accessible playground and park will give families and members of the community another space to gather, stay active and enjoy the outdoors.”

-       Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for Kings-Hants

Quick facts

  • The Brighton and Barton Volunteer Fire Department is developing this project in consultation with community members, community recreation and occupational therapists, the Municipality of the District of Digby's Accessibility Advisory Committee, the Digby Area Recreation Commission, and others.

  • A new community fire department facility was built approximately six years ago and is also designated a safe haven for natural disasters. The department responded to 22 emergency calls last year.

  • CCRF funding will support two major streams of activity:

    • adapt community spaces and assets so that they may be used safely in accordance with local public health guidelines,
    • 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

Lori Selig
Communications Manager
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-266-7477
Lori.Selig@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Rachel Skanes
Vice President
Brighton and Barton Volunteer Fire Department
226-237-2468
RachelSkanes@gmail.com

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