September 04, 2009
Vernon, British Columbia
The Regional District of North Okanagan will move forward with a wide range of improvements to its recreational facilities, 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 Paddlewheel Park, the Aquatic Centre, Vernon Boys’ and Girls’ Club, Priest Valley Gym, Dogwood Gym and Marshall Park, which will create jobs for the Regional District of North Okanagan.
“Our Government, through Canada’s Economic Action Plan, is creating jobs and building stronger, healthier communities.” said MP Mayes. “The upgrades to these six facilities will encourage greater physical fitness and benefit our local families for years to come.”
Funding of $179,665 is provided through the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program as part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan.
Facility upgrades will include: replacement of playground equipment at Paddlewheel Park; new flooring at the Aquatic Centre; replacement of siding, carpet and the downstairs ceiling of the Vernon Boys' and Girls' Club; replacement of the floor and installation of a motorized curtain divider in the Priest Valley Gym; air conditioning in the Dogwood Gym; and new lighting for outdoor tennis courts at Marshall Park.
“Today’s announcement is an excellent illustration of the federal government and our region working together to address community needs,” said Jim Bailey, Facilities Manager for the Regional District. “This RInC investment will help the Regional District of North Okanagan improve our recreational facilities for the benefit of residents, visitors and community partners alike.”
Improvements to these facilities will not only ensure better service for North Okanagan residents, but are also expected to enhance the local tourism industry.
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
Jim Bailey,
Facilities Manager
Regional District of North Okanagan
Telephone: 250-550-3666
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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