January 28, 2010
Calgary, Alberta
The City of Calgary has moved forward with upgrades to Olympic Plaza thanks to the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program, a major job-creating investment from Canada’s Economic Action Plan.
Today, Lee Richardson, Member of Parliament for Calgary – Centre, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced federal funding for the project that will boost Calgary’s recreational infrastructure and stimulate the local economy.
“Through the Economic Action Plan, our Government continues to invest in the recreational infrastructure of our communities” said MP Lee Richardson. “Olympic Plaza is one of this city’s most iconic outdoor rinks and this exciting project will help ensure its sustainability for many years to come.”
Federal funding of $166,667 was provided through the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program as part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan.
Ice plant upgrades include new technology that provides greater energy efficiency and increased safety mechanisms. Kyle Ripley, manager for Parks Planning and Development, notes that “The City of Calgary is committed to reducing our environmental impact and to providing a safe community for our citizens, visitors and employees.”
The outdoor skating rink at Olympic Plaza has received upgrades to its ice plant mechanical system. It is expected that residents and visitors to the city will take advantage of the improved ice surface for many years to come as a result of this City of Calgary 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 $153 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
Regional Manager, Communications
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Telephone: (780) 495-6892
Kyle Ripley
Manager, Parks Planning and Development The City of Calgary Parks
(403) 268-4757
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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