August 27, 2009
Kenaston, Saskatchewan
Kenaston will move forward with two separate recreational projects thanks to the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program, a major job-creating investment from Canada's Economic Action Plan.
Today, the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, and Greg Brkich, MLA for Arm River - Watrous on behalf of the Honourable Jeremy Harrison, Minister of Saskatchewan Municipal Affairs, announced federal funding to upgrade the swimming pool and arena that will create jobs for Kenaston area residents and improve the safety of both facilities for their patrons.
"I'm pleased to announce our Government's support for these two projects within my own community," said Minister Yelich. " By investing in these two local facilities, we are going to bring together families, friends and neighbours, while sustaining the viability of our local recreational facilities."
Total federal funding of $27,399 is provided through the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program as part of Canada's Economic Action Plan. The Government of Saskatchewan is providing a matching contribution of $27,399 while the Village of Kenaston and RM of McCraney will provide the balance of funding for total estimated project costs of $82,198.
Upgrades to the swimming pool include replacing the chlorination treatment system as well as the roof and doors for a total cost of $40,000. The completion of this work means Kenaston's swimming pool will meet health and safety standards ensuring residents and visitors enjoy a safe environment. The arena will be renovated to ensure wheelchair accessibility to the men's washroom and replace puck boards on the ice surface to increase safety for both skaters and patrons in the stands. The estimated total cost of the arena upgrades is $42,198.
"The Government of Saskatchewan understands the importance of the Kenaston arena and swimming pool to a healthy and active community," said Brkich. "Our investment in this project will increase recreational opportunities that will benefit the whole community."
"The financial support given to small towns and villages like ours is indicative of the value that both levels of government place on the quality of life in rural Saskatchewan," said Mayor Dan O'Handley of the Village of Kenaston.
The Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program will invest $500 million in recreational facilities across Canada over a two-year period. It will provide a temporary economic stimulus that will help reduce the impacts of the global recession while renewing, upgrading and expanding recreational infrastructure in Canadian communities.
Visit the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RinC) program in the West, or Canada's Economic Action Plan for more information.
For additional information, contact:
Lisa Hutniak
Office of the Minister
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Lisa.Hutniak@wd-deo.gc.ca
Jill Welke
Director, Communications
Ministry of Municipal Affairs
Telephone: (306) 787-2687
Mayor Dan O'Handley
Village of Kenaston
Telephone: (306) 252-2211
Mark Zdunich, Administrator
R.M. of McCraney
Telephone: (306) 252-2240
WD Toll-Free Number:1 888 338-WEST (9378)
Teletypewriter (TTY): 1 877 303-3388
Website: WD is online at www.wd-deo.gc.ca.
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