NORTH BATTLEFORD RECEIVES $7 MILLION FROM THE BUILDING COMMUNITIES PROGRAM

People in the city of North Battleford and surrounding area will soon enjoy increased access to new recreational and cultural facilities through a $7 million Building Communities Program investment from the province to the new North Battleford Multipurpose Facility.

"Families in the Battlefords area will experience a tremendous benefit from the new facility," Health Minister and Battlefords MLA Len Taylor said. "This investment will encourage physical activity and community growth for a sustainable future. It's one more way that the province is improving quality of life throughout Saskatchewan."

Taylor was in North Battleford today to announce funding to the new facility. The Multipurpose Facility will include an aquatic centre, a curling rink, two soccer pitches with a walking/jogging track, and a 450-seat performing arts centre. The facility will be jointly financed and operated by the city of North Battleford, the town of Battleford and the Battlefords Tribal Council.

"This is a very timely announcement by the Provincial Government as we believe it will be a new beginning for the fund raising committee of the Battlefords Multipurpose Committee to raise the required funding to make this project become a reality," North Battleford Mayor Julian Sadlowski said. "The Council of the City of North Battleford and its citizens are very thankful that the Provincial Government determined our application is worthy of this substantial contribution - a contribution that will greatly benefit the Battlefords and surrounding region and ensure the sustainability of our community's future."

"This announcement today is very welcome news," Little Pine Chief Patrick Bonaise said. "This is another example of the commitment of our communities in coming together and forming partnerships to enhance the lives of all of our citizens. The positive impact of this initiative in the Battlefords will benefit, not only us here now, but future generations as well."

The Building Communities Program is providing $100 million for cultural and recreational infrastructure. The program began in 2006-07. The program seeks to ensure the sustainability of cultural and recreational infrastructure in communities throughout the province.

Information on the Building Communities Program can be found on Culture, Youth and Recreation's website at www.cyr.gov.sk.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Janet Peters
Culture, Youth and Recreation
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4967
Email: jpeters@cyr.gov.sk.ca