WEYBURN TO RECEIVE ALMOST $2.4 MILLION THROUGH THE BUILDING COMMUNITIES PROGRAM

People in and around the City of Weyburn will soon enjoy increased access to recreational activities with a $2,383,636 Building Communities Program investment from the province of Saskatchewan. The funding will go towards the renovation of the Weyburn Colosseum.

"The Colosseum has been an integral part of Weyburn's recreational infrastructure for over four decades," Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Sandra Morin said. "The renovations to the facility will ensure that it retains its vital role in promoting the well-being of the people of Weyburn and the surrounding area."

Morin made the funding announcement in Weyburn today. Renovation work at the Colosseum, built in 1961, began in 2003. Phase Two of renovations, which is scheduled for 2008, will include the addition of dressing rooms to the south side of the facility and insulation in the roof. Further phases will see an addition to the east side of the facility and improved accessibility for the public.

"The City of Weyburn and surrounding communities are excited to hear that they have received funding from the Government of Saskatchewan through the Building Communities Program," Weyburn Mayor Debra Button said. "The funding will help complete the renovation project to keep the Weyburn Colosseum viable for years to come."

The Building Communities Program is providing $100 million for cultural and recreational infrastructure over three years, beginning in 2006-07. The program seeks to ensure the sustainability of cultural and recreational infrastructure in communities throughout the province. It is the largest per capita cultural and recreational infrastructure program in Canada.

Information on the Building Communities Program can be found on the Culture, Youth and Recreation 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