June 26, 2013
Kelowna, British Columbia
Today, the Honourable Ron Cannan, Member of Parliament for Kelowna—Lake Country, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced support for improvements to the Knox Mountain Park Apex Trail under the Harper Government's Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF).
"Our Government is committed to creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity in our communities across Canada," said MP Cannan. "By partnering with the city and upgrading this gem of a trail, local residents and visitors alike will be able to get outside and take advantage of the recreation and natural beauty our community offers."
The Harper Government's investment of $100,300 will support the restoration of the Apex Trail. With the funding provided today, the City of Kelowna will align and repair existing trails, add trail markers and guardrails, and block off access to hazardous trails. These improvements will ensure the trail remains safe and accessible for years to come.
"We are pleased to partner with the Government of Canada on this project," said Kelowna Mayor Walter Gray. "Knox Mountain is the city's largest natural park and provides residents various opportunities of recreational activity year round. The restoration of this trail will not only ensure that the community can continue to enjoy park but help protect the area from further erosion and decreased native vegetation."
In Economic Action Plan 2012, the Harper Government announced further support to help communities across the country modernize their infrastructure. Our Government committed $150 million over two years for the Fund. The Fund supports projects that look to improve existing community infrastructure accessible for use by the public, such as community centres, recreational buildings, local arenas, cultural and other community facilities.
Since 2006, the Harper Government, through WD, has invested in job-creating small- and medium-sized businesses, aerospace, marine and defence industries, and supported innovative entrepreneurs in pursuing emerging markets. By continuing to promote new economic opportunities, WD is helping to create jobs, economic growth, and long-term prosperity.
For more information, contact:
Jaime Burke
Regional Communications Manager
Western Economic Diversification Canada
British Columbia Region
Telephone: 604-666-1318
Tom Wilson
Communications Supervisor
City of Kelowna
Kelowna, British Columbia
Telephone: 250-469-8663
