Okanagan-Shuswap MP Colin Mayes was in South Shuswap last week, handing out money on behalf of Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification
Support for upgrades to the Cedar Heights Community Centre amounted to $166,475 from the government’s Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF).
“By improving facilities such as this, we are helping to boost economic activity while improving local infrastructure,” said Mayes. “With today’s investment, our government is demonstrating our commitment to creating jobs, growth and long-term economic prosperity.”
The funds will be used to add wheelchair-accessible washrooms, a kitchen, a storage room and mobility friendly staircase.
The lobby, office, and storage areas will be reconfigured and the roof, sound and HVAC systems will be upgraded.
“I would like to express our sincere appreciation for this important federal government investment in our community,” said Jean-Luc Desgroseilliers, vice-president of the Cedar Heights Community Association. “The community centre has been a local hub of social, recreational and educational activities for more than 36 years.
“This funding will allow us to proceed with much-needed facility renovations and accessibility upgrades.
“This assistance is also a tangible recognition of the dedication of the numerous volunteers who support the association and community centre (more than 7,200 volunteer hours in 2012).
“As a result, we will be able to much better serve our community and meet the needs of our increasing number of programs and activities.”
In Economic Action Plan 2012, the federal government announced further support to help communities across the country modernize their infrastructure.
“Our government committed $150 million over two years for the fund,” says Mayes. “The fund supports projects that look to improve existing community infrastructure accessible for use by the public, such as community centres, recreational buildings, local arenas, cultural and other community facilities.”