November 3, 2004 Westfield, New Brunswick The Oak Point Kiwanis Park will receive $318,988 from the federal government to enhance its facility with the construction of a water park and trading post/interpretive centre. "Strong tourism infrastructure is essential to developing a thriving industry here in New Brunswick," said the Honourable Andy Scott, Minister of Indian and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians. "By supporting the upgrade to the facilities at the Park, the Government of Canada is investing in a visitor destination that will benefit local vendors, the community, and visitors to the region." "I am pleased to have Dr. John Button, Governor of Kiwanis, and his wife, Debbie, here today to unveil the plans for this project." said Mrs. Pam Urquhart, President of the Park. "I would like to personally commend Mr. Edward Kelly for having the vision for this project and his efforts to bring it to this stage. I would also like to recognize the committee, Mr. Don Drew, Ms. Diane Bormke, Mr. Peter Lacey, Mr. Dallas Urquhart, Mr. Elmer Mersereau, Mr. Keith Melvin, and Mr. Ron Daigle for their work. Without this group of volunteers and the support of ACOA, we would not be making this announcement today." This infrastructure project will enable the Park to maximize its tourism potential by increasing visitation levels and aiming at part of the lucrative cruise ship market and drive-through tourists. The Park would like to capitalize on their proximity to Saint John, and the cruise ship industry's need to provide more activities for their clients. The water park will have a nautical theme and create activities for children. The trading post/interpretive centre will be built as model of the 17th century French- trading post originally on the grounds some 400 years ago. The trading post will be used as a registration area for the park and a site to showcase the areas artists work. The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) is providing funding of $318,988 through the Strategic Community Investment Fund (SCIF) and Oak Point Kiwanis is investing $106,747. Work to be completed includes: a new well, construction of a splash pad water park, picnic shelters, barbecue facilities, trading post/interpretive centre and upgrades to the washroom facilities. SCIF was created to support strategic initiatives that contribute to community economic development in Atlantic Canada. Its purpose is to help communities create opportunities for economic development that will attract investments and stimulate employment. SCIF is a component of the Atlantic Investment Partnership (AIP). The Kiwanis organization is worldwide with a mandate to serve the children. The Oak Point Kiwanis Park is a not-for- profit organization and will invest 25% of all the surpluses generated in diverse community causes. The rest will be utilized for the upkeep of the park and other projects. - 30 - Information: Valérie Poulin Director of Communications Office of the Honourable Joseph McGuire Minister of Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (613) 941-4227 Ed Kelly Oak Point Kiwanis Park (506) 738-2226 Gisèle Savoie A/Communications Officer ACOA NB (506) 452-3341
