Moncton, New Brunswick - Residents from the Moncton area will soon enjoy a newly improved outdoor exercise track thanks to the Recreational Infrastructure Canada Program (RInC), a key economic stimulus initiative under Canada’s Economic Action Plan. The Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency), made the announcement today.
“The Government of Canada recognizes the need within so many Canadian communities to provide better recreational facilities,” said Minister Ashfield. “Our investment of close to $9,000 for improvements to the Greater Moncton YMCA will stimulate the economy in the region, enhance local services, and contribute to the health and quality of life of the residents of Greater Moncton.”
“The YMCA of Greater Moncton is extremely grateful for the support provided by the RInC program and the Government of Canada,” said Zane Korytko, Chief Executive Officer at the Greater Moncton YMCA. “The YMCA is pleased to offer this track to the population of the Greater Moncton area. We encourage everyone to take a run or walk on the track in a safe and secure environment. The new track loops around our Caring Community Garden. We hope people will take the time to admire the garden and to relax and have a break on one of the new picnic tables or benches. This track is another way the YMCA is building strong kids, strong families and strong communities.”
The project involves an expansion to the current YMCA facilities by adding a half-kilometre track for running and walking. This improvement will allow Moncton residents to benefit from better recreational infrastructure and will encourage participation in physical activity and community building.
The Government of Canada is investing $8,860 through RInC while the Greater Moncton YMCA is providing the remaining financing for the $28,486 project.
Canada's Economic Action Plan is providing $500 million over two years for the RInC program to support the upgrading and renewal of recreational facilities in communities. Under RInC, the Government of Canada will typically fund up to 33 per cent of eligible costs. The remaining funding will be leveraged from other project stakeholders such as provincial, territorial, municipal and other partners. The federal contribution to any project receiving funding under the program will not exceed $1 million. Projects will be selected on the basis of merit and construction readiness, and must be completed before March 31, 2011.
For details on RInC project eligibility and how to submit an application, please refer to the program backgrounder on ACOA’s website at www.acoa-apeca.gc.ca.
For information on Canada's Economic Action Plan, please visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.
FOR BROADCAST USE:
Residents from the Moncton area will soon enjoy a newly improved outdoor exercise track thanks to funding of nearly $9,000 through the new federal Recreational Infrastructure Canada Program, a key economic stimulus initiative under Canada’s Economic Action Plan. Keith Ashfield, Minister of State for ACOA, made the announcement today.
The project involves an expansion to the current YMCA facilities by adding a half-kilometre track for running and walking. The project will create employment and provide recreational opportunities to both local residents and tourists for years to come.
INFORMATION:
Erin Filliter
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of State (ACOA)
613-941-7241
Stéphanie Bilodeau
Senior Communications Officer
ACOA New Brunswick
506-452-3034
Zane Korytko
Chief Executive Officer
Greater Moncton YMCA
506-853-8572
