Communities make over on the way

August 22, 2013 MANITOBA BUILDING AND RENEWAL PLAN INVESTS IN RECREATION PROJECTS IN SOUTHWEST WINNIPEG – – – Province Providing over $400,000 For Local Projects: Premier The provincial government is investing in southwest Winnipeg infrastructure that will renew and revitalize many popular recreation facilities and create green spaces for local families, Premier Greg Selinger announced today. “The projects announced today are about better opportunities for children and families to engage in healthy outdoor recreation, giving them a positive outlet for their energy and providing a focus for family entertainment,” said Selinger. “The province is pleased to invest in these important community-identified infrastructure projects that will serve the residents in the southwest sector of Winnipeg for years to come.” The province is providing the Fort Garry Lions with funding towards the installation of full field lighting on the Lions’ main football field. The project will involve the installation of four pre-cast concrete light standards, four galvanized steel light standards, 36 game lights and remote electrical component closures. The addition of lighting will significantly increase the number of hours during which the field may be used and also enlarge the number of activities for which it may be used throughout the year. Other organizations in southwest Winnipeg receiving funding include: •École Laverendrye Parent Advisory Council – enhancing École Laverendrye gymnasium; •Earl Grey Community Centre – upgrading outdoor building; •Osborne Village BIZ – creating a mural on the Gas Station Theatre; •Westdale Community Centre – expanding and enhancing sports facilities; •Linden Woods Community Centre – paving outdoor rink; •Churchill High School Parent Advisory Council – upgrading to digital sign; •Royal Canadian Legion Fort Garry Branch #90 – resurfacing parking lot; •Earl Grey School Parent Advisory Council – upgrading school grounds; •Red River Metis Group – repairing Red River carts; •Charleswood Curling Club – replacing ice surface roof and refrigeration piping; •Fort Rouge Co-op Day Nursery – creating nature based playground; •École Viscount Alexander School Ground Transformation Committee –outdoor classroom; •St. Norbert Immersion Parent Advisory Council – school yard improvements; •St. Norbert BIZ – installation of recreational public seating; •St. Avila Home and School Association – installation of bike cage; •Assiniboine Park Conservancy – Terry Fox Trail redevelopment; and •Manitoba Paddling Association – upgrading geothermal system. Budget 2013 and the Manitoba Building and Renewal Plan committed $7.5 million over the next three years for the Winnipeg Community Infrastructure Program. This new initiative is providing grants forprojects that will provide long-term recreational and wellness benefits to communities, the premier said. “When we improve the public buildings and recreational facilities in Manitoba, we are doing great things for our communities and our economy,” said Local Government Minister Ron Lemieux. “Improvements to buildings extend their use and keep neighbourhoods attractive and vibrant. By maintaining sports facilities, we provide youth with safe, positive ways to spend their time, so they are much more likely to challenge themselves through appropriate activities that will help them succeed in life.” The first application intake for the Winnipeg Community Infrastructure Program began on May 22, making grants available for projects such as libraries, swimming pools and splash pads, parks, trails, community centres, sports facilities including arenas and gymnasiums, as well as other community infrastructure facilities. The first application intake has closed and details on the next intake will be announced on the program’s website. For more information about the Winnipeg Community Infrastructure Program, go to www.gov.mb.ca/ia/wcip/index.html. - 30 -