October 23, 2009
Penhold, Alberta
Communities in central and southern Alberta will move forward with seven projects thanks to the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program, a major job-creating investment from Canada’s Economic Action Plan.
Today, Earl Dreeshen, Member of Parliament for Red Deer, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced federal funding for seven projects that will strengthen recreational infrastructure in central and southern Alberta communities and stimulate economic activity.
"I am very please today that our Government has approved funding for the final phase of the Penhold multiplex,” said MP Dreeshen. “This facility will provide a long term benefit, not just to the citizens of Penhold but to the County of Red Deer and Central Alberta. This is just another example of our Government's commitment to stimulate the economy and build needed infrastructure."
The total federal funding of $2,024,113 towards seven individual projects is provided through the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program as part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan.
“Our Government, through the Recreational Infrastructure Canada program, is taking timely targeted action to help put Canadians to work, encourage greater participation in physical activity and use of recreational facilities,” said the Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of the Environment and Member of Parliament for Calgary Centre-North. “These projects will ensure Alberta communities have access to the essential infrastructure we need today, and in the future.”
Federal funding for the Town of Penhold is helping to develop the third phase of the Penhold Regional Multiplex, which includes the construction of a new regulation-sized gymnasium, dance studio and a number of multi-purpose rooms. The versatile facility will offer improved access to programs and services to meet the growing recreational needs of the community and further enhance the quality of life for Penhold’s residents.
The City of Calgary is receiving federal support towards four projects that involve improvements to local tennis courts, the expansion of the Acadia Pool and Fitness Centre and upgrades to the Rose Kohn Arena. The upgrades will increase the accessibility and quality of the facilities, as well as strengthen recreational and physical opportunities for residents and visitors in the region.
Additional project highlights include funding to enhance a park, playground, baseball diamond and walking trails in Camrose County. Once the upgrades are complete, the recreational areas will support the region’s tourism industry and provide the community with increased opportunities to experience various outdoor recreational activities in an enjoyable and welcoming environment.
Further, the Town of Bowden is upgrading the Bowden Igloo Arena by replacing the old and obsolete ice plant equipment with a new unit. Support for this project will help the Town encourage active and healthy lifestyles year-round.
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. A total of almost $163 million in RinC funding will be invested across the four western provinces.
Visit the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program in the West, or Canada's Economic Action Plan for more information.
For more information, contact:
Donna Kinley
Manager, Communications
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Tel: (780) 495-6892
Cell: (780) 991-7432
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.
Subscribe to news releases and keep up-to-date on the latest from WD.
