An investment in the Eastern Kings Recreation Centre will better enable it to serve the needs of local residents, says Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Neil LeClair.
“The Eastern Kings Recreation Centre has been a central place for the people of this area to gather for community events for the past 33 years,” said Mr. LeClair. “Carrying out improvements to community facilities is one of the objectives of the Rural Action Plan which is aimed at strengthening social, cultural and economic opportunities in rural Prince Edward Island. “
The total cost of the upgrades to the community centre is $364,946. The Island Community Fund is contributing $100,000, while a further $221,779 is coming from Skills PEI to cover materials and wages. The community is contributing $43,167.
“Government is pleased to support the project by funding job opportunities in construction through Skills PEI,” said Allan Campbell, Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning. “It is working to give Islanders the job experiences that will let them upgrade their skills and find well-paying jobs. As we foster a strong Island labour force, it’s exciting to see the work going towards such a worthwhile project that will result in benefits for the local community.”
The Eastern Kings Recreation Centre is used for a wide range of events, including weddings, showers, local theatre, family reunions, fundraisers and community meetings. It is also used by other organizations and groups such as seniors, community schools, 4-H and Small Halls. It has also been used as a Community Access site since the local school closed in 2009.
“I would like to commend the sponsors of this project for their hard work and initiative on behalf of local residents,” said Mr. LeClair. “These centres play a very important part in community life, and I am very pleased with the major improvements that are being made.”
The Island Community Fund is a six-year, $27.5 million program to address infrastructure needs in rural communities.