Province Invests Additional $350,000 in Antigonish Recreation Project

A sport and recreation project that will have long-term benefits for the people and the economy of Antigonish is receiving a major boost today, Nov. 5.

MLA Maurice Smith, on behalf of Economic and Rural Development Minister Percy Paris, announced an additional $350,000 investment toward the Antigonish Town and County Recreation Association's field project.

"The province is proud to invest in this project that will create good jobs, grow the economy and add to the vibrant community," said Mr. Smith. "This project will also provide residents of the Antigonish area with better opportunities to lead active, healthy lives."

Provincial investments in the field project total $500,000. Economic and Rural Development's investment from the Strategic Initiative Fund complements an earlier commitment of $150,000 from the Department of Health Promotion and Protection's Recreation Facility Development program for a baseball field.

The project, with a total cost of $2.88 million, includes a new all-weather turf sport field, baseball field, and track and field facilities. The town, municipality and Straight Regional School Board have each contributed $250,000 to the project.

"We are delighted to be receiving funding from the province, enabling us to move forward with this exciting project," said Danny Berry, chair, Antigonish Town and County Recreation Association. "These new fields and facilities will be a great asset to the whole community and will help promote the health and vitality of our residents."

The Strategic Funding Initiative helps to ensure economic growth and sustainable communities for Nova Scotia, building on their assets and strengths. Funding is provided on a one-time basis used for non-recurring capital costs and investments for not for profit organizations across the province.

For more information on the field project visit www.antigonishsportsandrecreation.ca .