Recreation Facility Funding for South Shore Region

NOTE: A list of grants in the South Shore region follows this release.

A new park in Bridgewater is one of nine recreation projects in the South Shore region receiving grants to support fun and physical activity for Nova Scotians.

The region's grants totalling $207,180 were announced today, June 29, through the Recreation Facility Development Program.

"Outdoor spaces like parks, trails and playgrounds are among the many recreation facilities we're supporting to help Nova Scotians live healthy lifestyles," said Municipal Affairs Minister Mark Furey, on behalf of Health and Wellness Minister Leo Glavine. "We're investing nearly $1.7 million for 65 new and upgraded facilities around the province so that Nova Scotians have a variety of opportunities to be active every day."

The Town of Bridgewater will use $18,000 to start developing Generation Active Park which will include walking trails where dogs and their owners can enjoy being active outdoors.

"Funding for the first phase of this project allows for site drainage and other work to start developing amenities such as the leash-free dog park, trails and other components of the park," said Bridgewater Mayor David Walker. "With these features, Generations Active Park will become a centerpiece for recreation for residents and visitors to our community."

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!, government'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 South Shore region grants:

• Municipality of Chester, repurpose elementary school as community centre, $50,000
• Greenfield Recreation Association, replace windows, some flooring, and other building upgrades, $14,000
• Hillcrest Academy, Shelburne, year-round, publicly accessible community playground, $38,000
• Voglers Cove Community Hall, improvements to playground and park, $19,180
• Lahave River Trail Association, upgrades and additions to the Wentzells Lake-Salmon Run Trail, $20,000
• Municipality of the District of Lunenburg, parking and floating dock for public access to Church Lake, $28,000
• Queens County Rails to Trail Association, continue developing trail from Port Mouton to Shelburne County line, $14,000
• Town of Bridgewater, Generations Active Park, $18,000
• Town of Lunenburg, upgrades and new access point to Back Harbour Trail, $6,000