BUILDING COMMUNITIES PROGRAM BENEFITS MOOSE JAW AREA FAMILIES WITH $8.6 MILLION

Young people, families and other residents in the Moose Jaw area will soon have access to increased recreational and cultural activities with an $8,643,580 investment from the province of Saskatchewan through the Building Communities Program.

"This is exciting news," Learning Minister and Moose Jaw Wakamow MLA Deb Higgins said. "It will give young people and families of Moose Jaw and surrounding area the facilities to meet our growing recreation and community needs. The investment is making a difference in the lives of individuals and families throughout Moose Jaw region."

Higgins and Moose Jaw North MLA Glenn Hagel announced funding for two Moose Jaw and one Caronport area projects. The City of Moose Jaw is receiving $8,378,278 to build a new regional use multipurpose facility with plans that include a new curling rink, skating and hockey arena, soccer facility, walking track and venue for cultural performances. In addition, this new state of the art multipurpose facility will provide a home for the Moose Jaw Warriors. The Kinsmen Arena is also receiving $196,377 for a major upgrade, including new board and glass, new refrigeration system, new concrete floor and multipurpose sport court flooring. Construction began in spring 2007 and is scheduled to be completed by August 2007.

In the community of Caronport, the Building Communities Program is contributing $68,925 to build a new arena to provide recreational and competitive athletic opportunities for students of Briercrest College and Seminary, Caronport High School, the village of Caronport and surrounding areas.

"We know that cultural and recreational activities are the heart of our communities and our government is pleased to contribute to the vibrancy of the Moose Jaw area," Hagel said. "This investment is one more way we are making life better in Saskatchewan and ensuring our young people have a place to build strong futures."

"I am very pleased to be a part of this exciting announcement," Moose Jaw Deputy Mayor Mary-Dell Findlay said. "Cultural and recreational activities are key factors to the quality of life in Moose Jaw and area. This investment will definitely assist Moose Jaw and area to continue to build strong and healthy communities."

The Building Communities Program is providing $100 million for cultural and recreational infrastructure over three years, beginning in 2006-07. In order to receive support from the program, community projects must have a regional approach, sound business plans and other financial partners.

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:

Aidan Morgan
Culture, Youth and Recreation
Regina
Phone: 306-787-9087
Email: amorgan@cyr.gov.sk.ca