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The Honourable Carolyn Bertram, Minister of Communities, Cultural Affairs and Labour, and the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency), made the announcement today in North Rustico.

The provincial portion of the financing comes from the Island Communities Fund, a new, Provincially-funded, infrastructure program. “The government of Prince Edward Island implemented the Island Community Fund to help local communities take on projects which provide cultural, recreational, social and economic benefits,” said Minister Bertram. “We are very pleased to help fund these programs for the benefit of the local residents and for the good of our entire One Island Community.”

The first four projects which have been granted funding include new park and playground equipment and upgrades, a gymnasium rehabilitation and a teen centre renovation.

“These four community projects are the first to receive funding in PEI under a key federal government economic stimulus initiative – the Recreational Infrastructure Canada program,” said Minister Shea. “By investing in renovations and improvements to recreational facilities across the Island we are helping to generate local economic activity while contributing to the longer term health and vitality of our communities. I look forward to announcing more of these projects in partnership with the province and community organizations in the weeks ahead.”

The government of Prince Edward Island has committed a total of $27.5 million ICF funding for six years. For more information on funding under ICF, visit the Infrastructure Secretariat website at www.gov.pe.ca/go/infrastructure and click on Programs.

A total of $500 million over two years has been set aside through RInC, the new infrastructure program to support upgrades and repairs of recreational facilities in Canadian communities. The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency delivers RInC in Atlantic Canada. For details on project eligibility and how to submit an application, please refer to the program backgrounder on ACOA's website at www.acoa-apeca.gc.ca.

BACKGROUNDER

North Rustico Centennial Park – Equipment

Two new pieces of equipment will be purchased and installed at the playground, which will bring the playground at Centennial Park in North Rustico up to CSA standards. One piece will be an outdoor-fit exercise multi-gym designed for adult use, creating an opportunity for adults to participate in physical activity while at the park.

The total project cost is $30,400. The Province of Prince Edward Island is investing $12,768 and the Government of Canada is investing $10,032. The Community of North Rustico will fund the remaining amount of $7,600.

Eagle’s Nest Boundless Playground – Expansion

The expansion of the Eagle's Nest Boundless Playground in Stratford will include swing bays with accessible/adaptive swings, a Sway-Fun glider swing, a musical/auditory play unit, sun shelter, accessible picnic tables, trails linking all new and old playground equipment, and accessible fall zones around all equipment. All additions will meet Boundless playground's rigorous standards for accessibility and inclusion.

The total project cost is $155,800. The Province of Prince Edward Island is investing $65,436 and the Government of Canada is investing $51,414. The remaining amount will come from the Town of Stratford and other funding partners.

Richmond Recreation Centre and Social Club – Gymnasium Rehabilitation

The rehabilitation of the gymnasium at the Richmond Recreation Centre and Social Club in Charlottetown will include the replacement of the existing floor with a new multi-purpose floor, which will allow the area to be used for recreation, social and cultural events. The walls and ceiling will be repaired and painted, and new energy efficient lighting will be installed.

The total project cost is $300,000. The Government of Canada and the Province of Prince Edward Island are each investing $75,000. The City of Charlottetown is contributing $100,000. The applicant will fund the remaining amount of $50,000.

Generation XX Teen Centre – Renovations

The Generation XX Teen Centre in Summerside will undergo repairs to the roof and walls. The project will correct the roof slope to prevent water leaking into the building and repairs will be made to existing areas that have been affected by water damage in order to sustain the facility and offer youth in the area access to recreational activities.

The total project cost is $22,864. The Province of Prince Edward Island is investing $4,563 and the Government of Canada is investing $3585. The applicant will fund the remaining amount.