February 15, 2008
Langford, British Columbia
The City of Langford will build a new central park thanks to an investment of nearly $1.4 million from the federal and provincial governments. The funding is provided through the Canada-B.C. Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund (CBCMRIF), which enables communities across B.C. to grow as healthier, greener and more sustainable places to live.
The announcement was made today by James Lunney Member of Parliament for Nanaimo-Alberni, and Ida Chong, Minister of Community Services and MLA for Oak Bay Gordon Head.
"The development of this park will encourage Langford residents to enjoy a healthier and more active lifestyle," said MP Lunney, on behalf of the Honourable Rona Ambrose, President of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, and Minister of Western Economic Diversification. "The Government of Canada is proud to work in partnership with the Province of British Columbia to help communities grow as vibrant and productive places to live, work and raise families."
The project will create a central park for sports and recreation activities, which are accessible to all ages and physical abilities. The park will include a large pond, two trail systems, an all-weather playing field, outdoor tennis and basketball courts, a water park and playground equipment. More than 22,000 people will benefit from the additional green space.
"City central park will provide safe, friendly, recreational space for family members to be engaged in different activities while being at the same location," said Chong. "This project will go a long way to encourage physical activity and community togetherness."
"The City of Langford is extremely pleased to have the provincial and federal governments partner in recreation with our community in funding the Recreation 2010 program," said Langford Mayor Stewart Young. "Our residents of all ages will greatly benefit from the many amenities and opportunities that will be created by the initiative."
Launched in June 2006, the majority of CBCMRIF program funding supports local infrastructure upgrades or new construction projects for communities of fewer than 250,000, helping to minimize costs for local taxpayers.
At least 60 per cent of the funding will assist with "green projects," and is geared towards enhancing environmental sustainability, such as water and waste-water systems, public transit, and environmental energy improvements. Other infrastructure projects will support local roads, cultural and recreational facilities, tourism, and broadband connectivity. Funding for this project is conditionally approved pending the successful completion of an environmental assessment.
The total amount available through the CBCMRIF, with federal and provincial investments and matching local government contribution, is over $220 million. More details on the program are available through the CBCMRIF website at http://www.canadabcmrif.ca/.
For additional information, contact:
Jackie StewartCommunications AdvisorWestern Economic Diversification CanadaVancouver, B.C.Tel: (604) 666-1306Cell: (604) 671-9031
Marc BlackCommunications ManagerB.C. Ministry of Community ServicesVictoria, B.C.Tel: (250) 356-6334
WD Toll-Free Number:1 888 338-WEST (9378)
Web Site: WD is online at www.wd-deo.gc.ca.
