Trail Among Central Region Recreation Facility Grants

NOTE: A list of grants in the Central region announced today in Musquodoboit Harbour follows this release.

Upgrading the Musquodoboit Trail is one of 11 projects in the Central region announced today, July 10, by Dartmouth South MLA Allan Rowe, on behalf of Health and Wellness Minister Leo Glavine.

The projects will receive grants totaling $411,000 through the Recreation Facility Development Program to help Nova Scotians lead healthy, active lifestyles. Six other projects in the region, receiving grants totaling $221,000, were also announced today.

"It's important to invest in sport and recreation facilities so Nova Scotians can lead healthy, active lifestyles," said Mr. Rowe. "With nearly $2 million for 67 projects across the province, Nova Scotians of all ages can get active and have fun using new and upgraded facilities like this trail."

The Musquodoboit Trailways Association is getting $12,000 to upgrade the trail.

"Solitude and access to rugged wilderness only minutes from metro, the Musquodoboit Trailway offers it all," said Stanley Van Dyke, chair of the Musquodoboit Trailways Association. "Four years ago, the association began an ambitious plan of upgrading the rail trail to current active transportation standards suitable for superb biking, great walking, and access to all. With this grant, we will reach our goal this year."

The grants help community groups, municipalities and other not-for-profit organizations develop facilities to increase public participation in sport and physical recreation. Examples include renovations to buildings, developing and maintaining walking trails, and building and upgrading fields for sport and recreation.

The grants support Thrive!, the province's plan for a healthier Nova Scotia. The plan aims to create supportive environments for healthy eating and physical activity. Learn more at http://thrive.novascotia.ca .

Following is a list of Central region grants announced in Musquodoboit Harbour:

• Musquodoboit Trailways Association, upgrading the trail, $12,000
• Atlantic View Trail Association, completing trail to meet active transportation standards, $5,000
• Cole Harbour Parks and Trails Association, reconstructing the Salt Marsh Trail, $10,000
• Lawrencetown Cole Harbour Trail Connector Association, building the Old Lawrencetown Road Trail, $25,000
• Lake Charlotte and Area Heritage Society, building a boat launch, $100,000
• Carrolls Corner Community Centre, extending a walking trail, $25,000
• Canoe Kayak Canada, Atlantic Division, repairs to Lake Banook judges towers, $79,000
• Dartmouth Skateboard Coalition Society, skateboard park, $100,000
• Alderney Elementary School, playground upgrades, $15,000
• Admiral Westphal Elementary School, play structure, $15,000
• Waverley Memorial Elementary School, playground, $25,000