BIG RIVER GETS $285,000 INVESTMENT THROUGH THE BUILDING COMMUNITIES PROGRAM

The new Community Centre in Big River will soon be complete thanks to a $284,925 Building Communities Program investment from the province of Saskatchewan.

"Cultural infrastructure is crucial to sustaining strong, healthy communities in Saskatchewan," Regional Economic and Co-operative Development Minister Lon Borgerson said on behalf of Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Sandra Morin. "This Building Communities Program investment in the Community Centre will help improve the quality of life for the people of Big River and surrounding area."

Borgerson was in Big River today to announce the funding which will go towards the completion of the existing facility, which is attached to the community recreation complex. Remaining work includes a kitchen upgrade, stage lighting and sound equipment, a fitness room and a security system.

"Big River and District are pleased to receive the Building Communities Funding for the Community Centre, as it brings our construction one step closer to finishing the project, and we are excited that the new centre will better meet both the recreation and community needs of Big River," RM of Big River Reeve John Teer said.

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 program of its kind 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