Extensive upgrades to the recreational infrastructure of Prince County will be undertaken thanks to an investment of more than $260,000 under the Government of Canada’s Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) Program and the Prince Edward Island Community Fund (ICF).
The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of National Revenue, Minister of Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway, along with the Honourable Neil LeClair, Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development, made the announcement earlier today.
“Our Economic Action Plan is investing in community recreational facilities, improving the quality of life of local residents and showcasing our communities as places in which to invest and grow,” said Minister Shea. “Our investments in recreational infrastructure contributes to local economic activity, creates local jobs, and enhances facilities that will benefit the community for years to come.”
The projects include an expansion of the Summerside Credit Union Place recreational park to include a BMX bike park, safer playground equipment at Tignish Shore’s Fisherman’s Haven Park, and the refurbishment of Kinkora’s Heritage Park, with equipment and fencing.
“The provincial government is pleased to partner with the federal government and with local groups to develop and carry out these projects,” said Minister LeClair. “These projects are part of the Rural Action Plan which is aimed at strengthening the quality of services and facilities in our rural communities.”
The provincial portion of the financing comes from the Island Communities Fund, a provincially funded infrastructure program.
The Government of Prince Edward Island has committed a total of $27.5 million in ICF funding for six years. For more information on funding under Island Community Fund, visit the website at www.gov.pe.ca/go/infrastructure. The Island Community Fund is just one component of the over $80 million the province is investing in infrastructure for our One Island Community.
Canada’s Economic Action Plan is providing $500 million over two years through the RInC program, to support the upgrading and renewal of recreational facilities in communities across Canada, and to encourage increased participation in physical activity and community building. The RInC program continues to be delivered in Atlantic Canada by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.
BACKGROUNDER
Expansion to the SummersideCredit Union Place - City of Summerside:
This project includes an expansion of the Summerside Credit Union Place recreational park to include a BMX bike park. Expansion and upgrades includes the installation of a concrete-style bowl with various shapes that will attract and encourage a safe, positive and challenging sport for children and adults of all ages.
The total project cost is $250,000. The Province of Prince Edward Island is investing $105,000 and the Government of Canada is investing $82,500. The City of Summerside will fund the remaining amount of $62,500.
Tignish Shore Playground Expansion - Tignish Shore Community Improvement Committee:
This project is to replace playground equipment at Fisherman’s Haven Park that had to be taken down due to safety reasons. This project will provide new safe equipment, and expand the playground to attract more users to the facility.
The total project cost is $10,000. The Province of Prince Edward Island is investing $4,200 and the Government of Canada is investing $3,300. The Tignish Shore Community Improvement Committee will fund the remaining amount of $2,500.
Refurbishments to Heritage Park - Community of Kinkora:
Several upgrades will be made to Heritage Park in Kinkora, including the addition of new infant swings, play-fort, play-centre, and slide. There will also be new fencing installed and upgrades to the landscaping.
The total project cost is $3,472. The Province of Prince Edward Island is investing $1,458 and the Government of Canada is investing $1,145. The Community of Kinkora will fund the remaining amount of $868.