February 09, 2008
Ucluelet, British Columbia
Residents living in the District of Ucluelet will benefit from the construction of a new recreation centre, thanks to an investment of $2 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 become 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 Minister Responsible for Seniors' and Womens' Issues, MLA for Oak Bay - Gordon Head.
"Our investment will provide Ucluelet with a recreation facility for conferences, youth activities, community programming and much more," 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. "This new facility will contribute to the community's quality of life, and help Ucluelet grow as a vibrant and productive place to live, work and raise families."
The multipurpose centre will include community offices, multi-purpose rooms, a conference facility, fitness rooms, a theatre and a kitchen. The project expands Ucluelet's ability to deliver much-needed cultural, recreational and social programs, and contribute to the District's overall economic viability. The project will be built to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards for energy consumption. LEED standard is an internationally recognized assessment tool for the development of buildings that demonstrate energy efficiency and environmental sensitivity.
"The benefits of this project are twofold," said Minister Chong. "The new multipurpose centre will provide residents and visitors with a state-of-the-art venue for artistic and physical activities and it will be constructed to maximize energy efficiency."
"This is wonderful news for our community! The MRIF grant will assist us in creating a key piece of social infrastructure that will enhance the lives of those of us lucky enough to live in Ucluelet," said Mayor St. Jacques.
Launched in June 2006, the majority of the CBCMRIF program funding supports communities of fewer than 250,000 people to minimize the costs to taxpayers of local infrastructure upgrades or new construction projects.
At least 60 per cent of the funding will assist with "green projects," and are geared towards enhancing environmental sustainability, such as water and wastewater 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: 604 666-1306
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.
