July 04, 2011
Lloydminster, Saskatchewan
Patrons and visitors to the Lloydminster Agricultural Exhibition Association (LAEA) gathered to celebrate the improvements from the 24,000 sq. ft expansion of the facility’s convention spaces.
Improvements to the facilities included the construction of flexible, multi-purpose meeting spaces; a modern, fully-equipped concession; and a brighter, more inviting foyer. Hidden behind the walls and ceiling, and under the floors, are also significant upgrades to the electrical, air-conditioning, sprinklers as well as water and sewer systems that will improve the operating efficiencies.
The Honourable Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, was joined by the Honourable Jack Hayden, Minister of Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development and the Honourable Lloyd Snelgrove, MLA for Vermilion-Lloydminster and Owen Noble, President of LAEA, to commemorate today’s grand opening festivities.
“Our Government was proud to be a part of this project which has resulted in the revitalization of the Lloydminster Exhibition,
” said Minister Ritz. “The new facility will attract more visitors and provide long-term economic benefits for the Lloydminster area to complement the jobs created during the construction phase.
”
“Traditionally, agricultural fairs and exhibitions have always been the centre of social and cultural activity and have brought communities together through year-round events,
” said Jack Hayden, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development. “We are pleased to support the expansion of this first-rate, community-based facility that will benefit the entire region.
”
“Our community investment programs build on local efforts to improve the quality of life for all Albertans,
” said Lindsay Blackett, Minister of Culture and Community Spirit, “Our investment in the Lloydminster Exhibition will help bring economic, social and cultural rewards to the region.
”
The total cost of the expansion and renovation was $5.6 million with $3.6 million coming from the Community Adjustment Fund (CAF), part of the Government of Canada’s Economic Action Plan. The Government of Alberta also contributed $2 million towards the upgrades through Alberta lottery-funded community investment programs.
“This project allows us to provide further services to our community, as well as expand the capabilities of our own business,
” said Mr. Noble. “There are many special events, entertainment, recreation and business opportunities that we will now be able to offer and support with our new facilities.
”
The Lloydminster Agricultural Exhibition Association is dedicated to developing the community’s tourism industry. It’s committed to supporting the business, social and cultural sectors in the region and focuses on promoting agricultural development and education. The LAEA looks forward to several future development projects to further complement the existing facilities.
The Community Adjustment Fund (CAF) is part the Government of Canada's Economic Action Plan to help ensure a quick recovery from the economic downturn. CAF provided $306 million over two years to support the most affected western Canadian communities, such as those that are heavily reliant on resource-based industries. Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) delivered the fund in the four western provinces.
Visit the Community Adjustment Fund (CAF) in the West or Canada’s Economic Action Plan for more information.
For additional information, contact:
Mike Sidoryk
General Manager
Lloydminster Agricultural Exhibition Association
Lloydminster, Saskatchewan
Tel: 306-825-5571
Joanne Mysak
Manager, Communications
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Tel: (306) 975-5942
E-mail: joanne.mysak@wd.gc.ca
Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development
Ag Media Line
780-422-1005
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.
