Halifax Communities Share in Community ACCESS-ability Funding

SERVICE N.S./MUNICIPAL RELATIONS--Halifax Communities Share in Community ACCESS-ability Funding

Three community groups in Halifax County will receive $26,000 to help make their facilities more accessible to seniors and people with disabilities. The projects include installing elevators and paving walking paths.

The projects are among 19 projects worth a total of $146,000 announced today, May 19, by the Nova Scotia government under the Community ACCESS-ability program. The program helps community groups make public buildings and other facilities more accessible for all Nova Scotians.

This brings the number of approved projects to almost 200 and the total investment to $1.3 million since the program was announced in May 2000.

"These projects are vital for Nova Scotians with disabilities to fully participate in their communities," said Barry Barnet, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. "The community organizations we are supporting are helping to make Nova Scotia a more inclusive society and we are proud to work with them."

The Fisherman's Cove Development Association in Eastern Passage will be receiving $10,000 to pave walkways.

"Fisherman's Cove has quickly become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Halifax Regional Municipality," said Carolyn Scott, chair of the association. "Paving our walking paths will make it easier for visitors in wheelchairs to get around and enjoy all Fisherman's Cove has to offer."

Installing wheelchair ramps and lifts, accessible washrooms and automatic doors in community halls, recreational facilities, municipal offices and other locations across the province are the types of projects supported by the Community ACCESS-ability program.

Under the program, the province contributes $2 for every dollar raised by the project sponsor. Donations of labour and materials can be included in the sponsor's share, making it easier for municipalities and community organizations to raise their portion of the project costs.

Following are the projects approved in Halifax County:

• Fisherman's Cove Development Assoc., Eastern Passage: $10,000 (paved walkways)
• Cole Harbour Woodside United Church Hall: $10,000 (elevator)
• Kiwanis Centre, Cole Harbour: $6,000 (swimming dock)

Guidelines and application forms for potential project sponsors are available on the website at www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/muns/infr/access/access.asp or by calling 902-424-7798.