NEW MULTI-PURPOSE FACILITY OFFICIALLY OPENED AT FARM PROGRESS SHOW

Regina Exhibition Park's new $12 million multi-purpose facility was officially opened today as a highlight of the start of the Western Canada Farm Progress Show (WCFPS), North America's premier dryland farm technology show.

The new multi-purpose facility is being used as a trade show venue for the first time during the WCFPS. The facility serves as a flexible trade and convention venue and also provides much needed indoor recreation space that will benefit existing and new clients of Regina Exhibition Park. In addition, the facility creates new programming, services and employment opportunities for residents of North Central Regina.

As a major Canada Strategic Infrastructure Fund (CSIF) urban revitalization initiative, the project was jointly funded by the federal, provincial and municipal governments, contributing $5 million, $4 million and $3 million respectively.

"The completed multi-purpose facility is a convention destination of choice, a vital addition to Regina's sports facility corridor and a boost to the core neighbourhoods that it borders," Senator Robert W. Peterson said. "This facility is what the Government of Canada's New Deal for Cities and Communities is all about—working with provincial and municipal governments to support sustainable communities."

"The Government of Saskatchewan is pleased to invest $4 million toward the construction of this innovative facility," Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman said on behalf of Government Relations Minister Len Taylor. "It's an investment in the future of our youth, our community and our province. Given its varying uses from recreational to community to educational events, we can continue to attract and host major events, such as the Western Canada Farm Progress Show, that benefit our entire provincial economy, as well as events that enhance opportunities for Regina's inner city youth."

"Regina City Council continues to work hard to maintain a healthy balance of city services and social development opportunities," Regina City Councillor Wade Murray said on behalf of Mayor Pat Fiacco. "Projects like the new multi-purpose facility at Regina Exhibition Park clearly show we are achieving that goal by working together as a community."

Western Canada Farm Progress Show Chair Donna Strudwick and Regina Exhibition Association Board Chair Dale Canham noted that today's dedication ceremony marked the ongoing re-development of Regina Exhibition Park and the achievement of government, sport, business and community organizations working together to create a facility that benefits all.

Located on the east side of Regina Exhibition Park, the new 90,000 square foot facility will complement existing venues in Regina's 'sports corridor' which includes Taylor Field, the Regina SportPlex and the Regina Agridome. The facility will be the wrestling venue this summer for the Jeux du Canada Summer Games and will provide up to eight indoor soccer fields which will be utilized by more than 4,000 youth and adults each year.

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For More Information, Contact:

Maureen Boyle Government Relations Regina Phone: (306) 787-5959 Infrastructure Canada Ottawa Phone: (613) 948-1148
Lisa Wilson-Sturm City of Regina Regina Phone: (306) 777-7486	Mark Allan Regina Exhibition Park Regina Phone: (306) 787-9221