August 31, 2009
Grand Forks, B.C.
Grand Forks and the Regional District of Kootenay-Boundary will move forward with community improvements thanks to the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program, a major job-creating investment from Canada’s Economic Action Plan.
Today, Colin Mayes, Member of Parliament for Okanagan-Shuswap, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced federal funding for two projects that will create jobs in Grand Forks.
“Through Canada’s Economic Action Plan, our Government is creating immediate jobs and supporting long-term growth,” said MP Mayes. “The two community projects announced in Grand Forks today will benefit local families and visitors for years to come.”
Total funding of $1,008,583 is provided through the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program as part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan.
The City of Grand Forks will receive $933,333 in funding to construct approximately 3.9 km of pedestrian walkways and bike paths in the community. The pathways will be wheelchair accessible and run from South Ruckles-Black Train Bridge to Perley School and the local recreation centre. The trail will end at the Hutton School/Hospital loop. Project activities include surveying, hiring of staff, and construction of trails with lighting, fencing and signage.
“I am delighted with this funding for pedestrian and bike path access to local neighbourhoods, schools, recreation facilities, daycare, seniors' care facilities and the hospital,” said Mayor Brian Taylor. “This funding from the Federal Government will further assist us in providing alternate transportation systems and reducing green house gas emissions.”
The Regional District of Kootenay Boundary will receive $75,250 in RInC funding to renovate the Grand Forks Aquatic Centre. Project activities include: replacing the main pool roof; replacing the heating, ventilating and air conditioning system; and, recycling and upgrading the digital sign. Improvements will extend the life of the centre.
“We are very pleased that this program and the federal government have been able to assist small communities in ensuring that we are able to provide sustainable recreational facilities and programs,” said Chair Marguerite Rotvold, Regional District Kootenay Boundary.
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:
Donna Howes
Manager, Communications
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Telephone: 604-666-1318
Cell: 604-505-6616
Victor Kumar
City of Grand Forks
Telephone: 250-442-4140
John Mackey
Director, Recreation and Facilities
Regional District of Kootenay Boundary
Telephone: (250) 442-2202
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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