People in Greater Victoria to benefit from new community centres and recreational facilities

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VICTORIA – New Democrat MLAs say that people in Greater Victoria will have access to new community centres, and more arts and recreation opportunities thanks to a new joint provincial-federal investment of over $18 million for eight projects.

“By investing in community centres, sports parks, and arts studios, our government is delivering on our commitment to make life better for people,” said Mitzi Dean, MLA for Esquimalt-Metchosin. “I’m especially pleased to see that this funding will help construct a new community centre in View Royal, filling a gap and providing a much needed space for individuals and community groups to participate in programs and host events.”

Dean says the total funding amounts to $18,354,637 for eight projects:

  • Saanich: Gorge Soccer Association – Hampton Park Artificial Turf Replacement Project ($455,000)
  • Victoria: Victoria Cool Aid Society – Arts Collective Maker Space ($699,335)
  • View Royal: Victoria Highland Games Association – Craigflower Hall Community Centre ($2,841,150)
  • Sooke: Scouts Canada-Cascadia Council -Camp Barnard Mor Kitchen/Dining Facility ($423,095)
  • Sooke: Sunriver Multi-use Sport Box ($892,778)
  • Capital Regional District: Mayne Island Regional Trail – Phase 1 Development ($2,778,393)
  • Pauquachin First Nation: Pauquachin Legacy Gathering Space ($6,371,531)
  • T’Sou-ke First Nation: T’Sou-ke Nation Community Complex and Health Centre ($3,893,355)

This local funding is part of over $228 million in grants going to B.C. communities through the first intake of Community, Culture and Recreation and Rural & Northern Communities streams of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), a provincial-federal cost-sharing program that makes investments in community and green infrastructure. The Province of B.C. has committed nearly $62 million of the total funding for this intake.

The second intake for both streams was announced on June 25, with nearly $160 million in combined funding available for projects.

Investments made through ICIP are designed to create economic growth, sustain well-paying jobs, build inclusive communities, and support a low-carbon, green economy.

Quotes:

Rob Fleming, MLA for Victoria-Swan Lake:

“I’m so pleased to see upgrades coming to the turf playing fields at Hampton Park. This project is great news for thousands of soccer players of all ages in our community as it will improve playing conditions for people and provide a better game experience for everyone that uses this important space.”

Lana Popham, MLA for Saanich South:

“Supporting local arts and culture is essential in fostering an inclusive community. This funding will help the Victoria Cool Aid Society construct an art studio, providing a space for vulnerable and marginalized groups to create art they can sell at local craft fairs. This investment means vulnerable people will have access to additional income and the therapeutic benefits of creative expression.”

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/22556