Cape Breton Region Receives Recreation Funding

NOTE: A list of investments awarded in the Cape Breton region follows this release.

Recreation facilities in the Cape Breton region will receive about $726,000 through 13 grants announced today, June 16, under the Recreation Facility Development Program.

Deputy Premier Frank Corbett made the announcement on behalf of Maureen MacDonald, Minister of Health Promotion and Protection.

"The government supports organizations and recreation facilities that help Nova Scotians lead healthier, more active lives," said Mr. Corbett. "We are providing $2.94 million for projects across the province that will help families in every region get fit and have fun. That is the right decision for Nova Scotians."

Under the Recreation Facility Development Program, the grants will be used to renovate facilities, develop and maintain walking trails, and build and upgrade various fields and buildings used for sport and recreation.

The program assists community groups, municipalities and other not-for-profit organizations develop facilities to increase public participation in sport and physical recreation.

The Cape Breton grants were announced at the BAYplex in Glace Bay. This facility received $99,936, to build two dressing rooms.

"This grant will help to enhance the BAYplex facility," said Clarence Routledge. "In particular, it will enhance the accommodations for female hockey, which has continuously been increasing over the years."

NOTE: Investments in Cape Breton are:
-- Camp Rankin 4-H Association: upgrade Camp Rankin facility, $20,000 -- Cape Breton Victoria Regional School Board: build and upgrade playgrounds to enhance programming: $48,800 over two years -- Cape Breton Regional Municipality: develop Whitney Pier Community Heritage Trail, $75,000 over two years -- Coxheath Hills Wilderness Recreation Association: improve existing trails and construction of new trails, $20,000 over two years -- Dr. Bernie MacLean Cultural and Recreation Centre: replace refrigeration system, $85,000 -- Eskasoni First Nation Band Council: construction of three playgrounds and a skateboard park, $56,000 over two years -- Strait Regional School Board: rebuild playground and playing field at the Felix Marchand Education Centre, $20,000 -- Isle Royal ATV Club: develop multi-use trail within Cape Breton Regional Municipality, $20,000 over two years -- L'Ardoise Adult Recreation Club: upgrade L'Ardoise ball field, $34,500 -- Cape Breton Victoria Regional School Board: refurbish existing field and walking trail at Memorial High School, $70,000 over two years -- St. Peters Lions Club: build multi-use outdoor fitness facility, $100,000 over two years -- Strait Area Community Curling Club: replace aging ice shed with new three sheet building, $77,000 over two years -- Glace Bay Recreational Society: build two dressing rooms, $99, 936