May 28, 2011
Delta, British Columbia
Today, dignitaries representing the Government of Canada, Corporation of Delta and Delta Gymnastics Society, officially opened the Delta Sport Development Centre, a new training facility for local athletes.
“I’m pleased that our Government was able to improve recreational opportunities here in Delta,” said Kerry-Lynne Findlay, Member of Parliament for Delta—Richmond East and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification. “Our investment not only created immediate jobs, but has provided us with a facility that will serve and strengthen the community for many years to come.”
Funding of $753,000 was provided through the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program as part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan. The Corporation of Delta contributed $1.25 million and the Delta Gymnastics Society raised an additional $1.2 million.
The 1,860 square metre (20,000 square foot) facility located adjacent to the Ladner Leisure Centre, better meets local demand by schools, sports groups and the gymnasium society for training space. The leading-edge, environmentally-friendly facility features a large gymnasium, a glass- viewing area for families and fans, an administrative area, a community room, washrooms and change rooms.
“Delta Council is so pleased to see this facility open and enjoyed by so many Delta families. Its central location, next to public transit and major road access, will maximize its use and truly serve all of Delta. Delta’s commitment to the environment is demonstrated in construction to the highest environmental standards and inclusion of a geothermal heating and cooling system. We are also proud of the partnership that made this possible with funds contributed by the Government of Canada the Corporation of Delta and the Delta Gymnastics Society,” said Mayor Lois E. Jackson, Corporation of Delta.
"We began classes on April 18, and immediately the first week we had over 400 children under the age of five attend classes at the new centre. Since then, an additional 250 school aged children have taken part in our recreational programs, not to mention our competitive athletes, school field trips, drop-in classes, and sport groups. This new centre has instantly become a significant asset for the community, improving the health and activity levels of our youth,” said Mark Friesen, Executive Director, Delta Gymnastics Society, about the Centre’s quick success.
The Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program invested $500 million in recreational facilities across Canada over a two-year period. Visit the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program in the West, or Canada's Economic Action Plan for more information.
For additional information, contact:
Jaime Burke
Regional Communications Manager
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Vancouver, British Columbia
Telephone: 604-666-1318
Julie Halfnights
Parks, Recreation & Culture Corporation of Delta
Telephone: 604-952-3540
Mark Friesen
Executive Director
Delta Gymnastics Society
Telephone: (604) 943-0460
WD Toll-Free Number:1-888-338-WEST (9378)
Teletypewriter (TTY): 1-877-303-3388
WD Website: www.wd-deo.gc.ca.
Subscribe to news releases and keep up-to-date on the latest from WD.
