New provincial funding will help the Prince Edward Island Snowmobile Association provide safe snowmobiling trails to its members and to the public, says Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Ron MacKinley.
“Government is pleased to partner with the Snowmobile Association in its efforts to promote snowmobiling as a safe, recreational family activity in winter,” said the Minister. “The economic impact of snowmobiling is $3.5 million annually, which is very important to businesses all across Prince Edward Island.”
The Island Community Fund will provide $119,000 to purchase new trail grooming equipment, with the Snowmobile Association contributing an additional $178,000. There are approximately 1,100 kms of groomed trails on the Island. The main trail is the former rail line that runs from Tignish to Souris.
“We really appreciate the support from government to create a safe environment for snowmobilers,” said Dale Hickox, president of the Prince Edward Island Snowmobile Association. “Snowmobiling is a very popular winter sport on Prince Edward Island and this funding will help maintain high-quality trails and help promote the sport.”
“I am pleased to congratulate the members of the Prince Edward Island Snowmobile Association for their work on this initiative,” said the Minister. “These improvements to upgrade the trails will help attract more people to the sport and create new opportunities for the organization.”
Minister MacKinley said the provincial government’s Rural Action Plan is helping rural communities enhance the quality of local services and facilities through the Island Community Fund. The fund is a six-year, $27.5 million program to address infrastructure needs in rural Prince Edward Island.