Government Provides $1 Million Toward the Development of the Summerside Wellness Centre

* Community and Cultural Affairs [to Jun 2007]
The Government of Prince Edward Island will provide a grant for $1 million toward the development of the aquatics portion of the Summerside Wellness Centre.

The announcement was made today by Helen MacDonald, MLA for St. Eleanors- Summerside on behalf of the Honourable Elmer MacFadyen, Minister of Community and Cultural Affairs and his Worship Mayor Basil Stewart. The funding is made available through the Recreation and Sport Facility Development Program and will be spread over three years.

"I am so pleased to make this announcement today which will see the development of the aquatics and fitness component of the new Wellness Centre for the City of Summerside," says Helen MacDonald. "While the Centennial Pool has served the city well for many years, it is showing its age. This new facility will provide many opportunities for residents to stay active and enjoy community recreation and sporting events."

The new facility will include a six-lane, 25-metre Pool, a leisure pool and fitness area.

Mayor Stewart stated, "On behalf of City Council, we say thank you to the Provincial Government for their financial assistance. We look forward to working with all levels of government to see this project complete. This project will replace our aging facilities, stimulate our economy and complement our West End Redevelopment and our city in general."

The Recreation and Sport Facility Development Program is designed to assist in addressing aging facilities and facility deficiencies through the planning, construction, renovation and conservation of facilities for public recreation purposes while providing increased opportunities for Islanders to participate in recreation and sport.

Media Contact: Jennifer MacLeod