December 17, 2009
Edmonton, Alberta
The Nor’Westers Athletic Association will move forward with upgrades to its facility thanks to the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program, a major job-creating investment from Canada’s Economic Action Plan.
Today, Mike Lake, Member of Parliament for Edmonton – Mill Woods – Beaumont and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Industry, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced federal funding for the project that will boost Edmonton’s recreational infrastructure and stimulate the local economy.
“Our Government is committed to keeping Canadians working as the economy begins to emerge from this global economic recession,
” said MP Mike Lake. “Through our investment in these upgrades, the Nor’Westers Athletic Association will have the necessary infrastructure to serve the recreational needs of this community, host various high-profile events and help strengthen the local economy.
”
Federal funding of $1,000,000 is provided for the upgrades through the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program as part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan. As of November 26, 2009, WD has approved a total of 134 Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) projects in Alberta with an investment of more than $33 million toward total project costs of more than $147 million. Clients report that they expect to create or maintain approximately 748 full-time equivalent jobs during this challenging economic time.
In addition, the Government of Alberta, through the Municipal Sustainability Initiative, provided $9.9 million for the Multi-Sport Tournament and Recreation Site project, while the City of Edmonton contributed 138 acres of land for the site and $9.8 million for its development. The Nor'Westers Athletic Association is one of five partners in the project.
“It’s great to see community partners come together to build this sport and recreational area that so many Edmontonians will be able to enjoy,
” said the Honourable Ray Danyluk, Minister of Alberta Municipal Affairs. “I congratulate all the partners on creating a place that will support healthy lifestyles and strong communities for many years to come.
”
The Nor’Westers Athletic Association will complete renovations on their clubhouse, build a secure equipment storage garage, install turf on three premier playing fields, install eight sand volleyball courts and construct a playground. This project will render the association’s infrastructure worthy of hosting provincial, national and even international sporting events. The quality of the facilities and fields is expected to significantly spur interest in sport and leisure activities throughout the area.
“The City of Edmonton is a proud partner in the development of the Multi-Sport Tournament and Recreation Site,
” said Edmonton’s Mayor, Stephen Mandel. “In addition to creating significant economic benefits for our city, this world-class tournament and recreation site will further enhance Edmonton’s livability by encouraging active, healthy lifestyles. We appreciate the participation of all partners in this project.
”
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. Western Economic Diversification Canada is delivering the program in Western Canada.
“The relocation, renovation, and rebuild of Nor’Westers Athletic Park will enhance the health and safety of the participants while providing greater opportunities for skill and fitness development,
” said Alastair Hancock, Director, Nor’Westers Athletic Association. “The ‘new' Park will facilitate the continuing growth of our youth programs and allow the facility to host regional, provincial, national and international events.
”
Visit the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program in the West, or Canada's Economic Action Plan for more information.
For more information, please contact:
Donna Kinley
Regional Manager, Communications
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Telephone: (780) 495-6892
Bobbi Klettke
Communications Officer
City of Edmonton
Telephone: (780) 442-0961
Jody Korchinski
Director, Communications
Alberta Municipal Affairs
Telephone: (780) 906-5013
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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