MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS ANNOUNCES SUPPORT FOR FOUR SIGI-REC PROJECTS

Municipal Affairs is pleased to announce the recipient projects of the Saskatchewan Infrastructure Growth Initiative Recreation Pilot (SIGI-Rec) program under the 2011-12 budget. Four projects will receive interest rate subsidies on $12.5 million of borrowing to assist the development of recreational infrastructure. The SIGI-Rec program allows municipalities to borrow interest free for the development of recreational infrastructure to meet the demands associated with growth in the community and surrounding areas.

"Programs like this one help give municipalities a start on recreational infrastructure projects," Municipal Affairs Minister Darryl Hickie said. "Recreational projects improve quality of life and allow for Saskatchewan communities to contribute to the Saskatchewan Advantage. Our province is seeing growth in population and SIGI-Rec funding allows municipalities to develop their recreational infrastructure to meet the needs of their growing communities."

The four approved projects include:

• The Warman WSCV Recreational Complex - Construction of the Warman Sport and Cultural Village including a hockey arena, two indoor soccer fields and leasable space for recreation programs.
• The North Battleford Credit Union Complex - Construction of four recreational facilities including aquatic centre, performing arts centre, field house and curling rink.
• The Colonsay and District Sports Centre and "Hurry Hard" Project - Upgrades and expansions of the existing artificial ice plant and geothermal systems and replacement of existing lighting.
• The Etters Beach Community Play Park Development - Construction of a new playground area and camp kitchen.

For more information about the SIGI-Rec program, please visit www.municipal.gov.sk.ca/Funding/SIGI-Rec.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Megan Wolfinger
Municipal Affairs
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2155
Email: megan.wolfinger@gov.sk.ca