Federal, Provincial and Municipal Governments Invest in Winnipeg’s Recreational Infrastructure

August 28, 2009

Winnipeg, Manitoba - Winnipeg will move forward with enhancements to the overall recreational assets at the École St. Avila and Richmond Kings Community Centre site, thanks to funding from all three levels of government.

Today, the Honourable Kerri Irvin-Ross, Minister of Healthy Living, on behalf of the Province of Manitoba; Rod Bruinooge, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification; and Deputy Mayor Justin Swandel, on behalf of the City of Winnipeg, announced funding that will create jobs in Winnipeg.

“Every time investments are made to boost physical activity it’s a win,” said Minister Irvin-Ross.  “No matter your age, keeping active is the best way to maintain a healthy lifestyle and by upgrading the fitness trail and building a new play structure, we are giving residents in this area the ability to be active.”

 “I’m pleased to announce our Government’s support for the École St. Avila and Richmond Kings Community Centre,” said MP Rod Bruinooge. “Together, we’re creating jobs, encouraging greater physical activity, and building the foundation for our future growth and prosperity.”

“This project will be a wonderful addition to the recreational amenities in the Fort Richmond area,” said Deputy Mayor Justin Swandel. “It’s amazing what can be accomplished when three levels of government connect with strong community support.”

The total project cost is $300,500.  Funding of $76,500 is provided through the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program as part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan, with the Province of Manitoba providing $76,500. The City of Winnipeg is contributing $75,000 towards the project.

Under the project, they will replace the existing play structure, upgrade the fitness trail, and improve the field drainage system.

“The environmental drainage and natural playground project will significantly improve recreational opportunities in Winnipeg South. It will also benefit our water system, lakes and rivers and increase our understanding on how we all can be good stewards of our environment,” said Sarah Guillemard, Vice President of École St. Avila Home and School Association. “It’s a unique project that’s receiving strong support from all our partners, and we'd like to especially thank the federal and provincial governments and the City of Winnipeg for their support.”

The Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program will invest $500 million in recreational facilities across Canada over a two-year period. It will provide a temporary economic stimulus that will help reduce the impacts of the global recession while renewing, upgrading and expanding recreational infrastructure in Canadian communities.

Today’s announcement continues the important steps the Province of Manitoba is taking to support economic growth by investing $1.6 billion this year into infrastructure to stimulate the economy, create jobs, and renew the province’s roads, schools, health facilities, and water treatment facilities.
For more information on the Recreational Infrastructure Canada program in the West, please visit: http://www.wd-deo.gc.ca/eng/11264.asp.
To learn more about Canada’s Economic Action Plan, visit: http://www.actionplan.gc.ca/.