CanNor-13-025
Faro, Yukon (September, 27, 2013) – The Town of Faro will be able to move forward with upgrades to two community structures thanks to the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF), an investment under Canada's Economic Action Plan that helps rehabilitate and improve existing community infrastructure across Canada. CIIF is administered in the North by the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor).
Today, Yukon Member of Parliament Ryan Leef, on behalf of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Environment, Minister of CanNor and Minister for the Arctic Council, announced $70,350 in federal funding for repairs and renovations to the Recreation Centre and Arena, which will help create jobs and improve community facilities in Faro, Yukon.
"Our Government is proud to contribute to projects that create sustainable, healthy and prosperous northern communities," said Yukon MP Ryan Leef. "These infrastructure improvements will enhance the safety and operational efficiency of the facilities and allow community members to enjoy cultural and recreational activities in Faro for years to come."
Upgrades at the Recreation Centre, one of the busiest buildings in Faro, will primarily focus on repairs to the roof and exterior siding. Necessary renovations will also ensure that the facility can continue to be used as the community's primary evacuation location in case of emergency. Improvements to the Arena include replacement of loose boards on the hockey rink and repairs to the refrigeration unit. Both projects will provide important health and safety benefits as well as extend the life and improve the usability of the facilities.
"Our Recreation Centre and Father Rigaud Arena are over 40 years old and shall benefit greatly from these projects that will encourage an active lifestyle, improve community safety, and provide local employment," said Faro Mayor Heather Campbell. "Both facilities are a large part of the social fabric of our community, and without support from CanNor we would not be able to move forward on these much needed upgrades."
Investment in this project is made possible through the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF), a national program that will provide $150 million over two years across the country to rehabilitate or improve existing community infrastructure across Canada. All projects are required to begin and end construction prior to March 31, 2014.
The CIIF will help to achieve three Government of Canada priorities: promoting long-term growth and prosperity in Canada's economy; creating jobs; and improving the quality of life of communities.
For more information on Canada's Economic Action Plan.
Office of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq
Jennifer Kennedy
819-997-1441
Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency
Erin Macpherson
Communications Advisor, Yukon
867-667-3849
Town of Faro
Tom Lie
Chief Administrative Officer
867-994-2728
