A provincial government investment of $190,000 is being used to construct a new fire hall for the Central Kings Rural Community Fire Company and upgrade equipment for the Cardigan Fire Department, says Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Neil LeClair.
“Improving the safety and security of the areas served by these fire departments helps build rural communities,” said Minister LeClair. “The provincial government is pleased to partner with the volunteer members of the fire department to improve services to area residents.”
The total cost of the two projects is $310,000. The Island Community Fund is contributing approximately $190,000 with the community sponsors providing $120,000 overall.
The Central Kings Rural Community Fire Department needs a new fire hall to house its equipment and vehicles in one facility, which will also serve as a local emergency shelter. The initiative will consist of the construction of a new 50 x 70 fire hall. The total cost of the project is $232,000. The Island Community Fund is contributing $150,000 to this project.
The Cardigan fire department has some aging equipment that needs replacing and also needs to access a new source for its water supply. The total cost of the project is $78,000. The Island Community Fund is contributing $39,000 to this project.
“Providing new facilities and upgraded equipment will enhance the fire safety capacity of the departments and their volunteer firefighters,” said Mr. LeClair. “I congratulate the members for undertaking this initiative.”
The Island Community Fund is a six-year $27.5 million program established by the provincial government to address infrastructure needs with a focus on rural communities.