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The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of National Revenue, on behalf of the Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Associate Minister of National Defence and Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency) (La Francophonie), and the Honourable Robert Henderson, PEI Minister of Tourism and Culture, on behalf of the Honourable Ron MacKinley, PEI Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development, today announced details for upgrades to five community-based projects.

“Our Government has identified infrastructure improvements as a key part of the plan to create jobs, growth, and long-term prosperity for Canadians,” said Minister Shea. “The investments in these projects are boosting rural economic activity and enhancing the quality of life for surrounding residents.”

In total, the Government of Canada will invest $80,285 from the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund. The Government of Prince Edward Island will invest $62,293 under the Island Community Fund.

“The Government of Prince Edward Island is very pleased to support improvements to upgrade these important community facilities,” said Minister Henderson. “Our investment, under the Island Community Fund, reflects a strong commitment to the quality of life of rural residents and the sustainability of rural communities.”

• The Alberton Historical Preservation Society received $17,500 from the Government of Canada and $14,000 from the Government of Prince Edward Island for repairs and upgrades to the Alberton Arts and Heritage Centre. Improvement work included repairs to the roof and front entrance, painting, new flooring, and the installation of a new sound and multimedia system.

• The Tignish Royal Canadian Legion received $12,135 from the Government of Canada and $9,708 from the Government of Prince Edward Island to undertake an energy audit for its local Branch. The project included purchasing and installing new energy efficient furnaces, updating the control system for better heat distribution and replacing oil tanks.

• The St. Louis Community Centre received $32,225 from the Government of Canada and $22,660 from the Government of Prince Edward Island to undertake upgrades to its local community centre. Improvements included electrical upgrades, roof repairs, stage work, ceiling and floor repairs, the addition of bicycle racks and picnic tables and the installation of signage.

• The O’Leary Area Development Corporation received $5,925 from the Government of Canada and $5,925 from the Government of Prince Edward Island to carry out improvements to the lower level of the Future Tech West building. Upgrades included the installation of a retractable wall allowing the room to be divided for two groups to utilize the space.

• The Elmsdale Community Centre received $12,500 from the Government of Canada and $10,000 from the Government of Prince Edward Island for upgrades to its community centre. Work included a new stage, new lighting, and the installation of a central vacuum system, painting, floor work, new kitchen equipment and minor landscaping.

“We are very pleased with the completed upgrades to our Community Centre, and this project could only come to be with the support from the federal and provincial governments,” said Mr. Alton Williams, President, Elmsdale Community Centre. “This facility is the heart of our community and these improvements will ensure the viability of our centre for many years to come.”

In Economic Action Plan 2012, the Harper Government announced plans to further modernize Canada’s infrastructure by committing $150 million over two years for the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund. The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency is delivering the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund in Atlantic Canada with an allocation of $16.6 million, of which $2.5 million has been allotted to projects in Prince Edward Island.

The Prince Edward Island Government is delivering funds to eligible projects through the Island Community Fund, a multi-year funding commitment to address infrastructure needs in communities across the province.