Wellington North receives over $24,000 from Canada 150 grant

Perth-Wellington MP Gary Schellenberger announced on July 27 that upgrades to the Arthur Arena Recreation Complex will receive funding through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program.

Wellington North originally applied for the grant in June to renovate the flooring and add acoustics and heaters to the building.

The grant contribution of $24,461 represents one third of the total cost of $73,382.

“We are proud to partner with the federal government in celebrating 150 years of Canada and are delighted they have agreed to help fund some important upgrades to the Arthur Community Centre, a place where we often celebrate our community pride,” Mayor Andy Lennox said in a press release.

The source of the rest of the funds will be determined during the 2016 capital budget process.

The project is earmarked for 2016, said Wellington North CAO Michael Givens.

The municipality also applied for funding to renovate fences, benching and bleachers at the Kinsmen Ball Diamond in Mount Forest – at a cost of $55,000 – but was not successful with that application.

The Arthur arena  announcement is one of many for projects approved through the program, which will improve and preserve community spaces across southern Ontario, with the aim of giving back to Canadians and creating a lasting legacy as Canada prepares to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017.

The program is expected to boost economic activity through infrastructure investments, build community-based partnerships, and modernize existing community facilities.

“Our government is committed to creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity for Canadians through investments in our communities,” said Schellenberger.

“By improving community infrastructure through these local projects, we are helping to boost economic activity and maintain a high quality of life for residents of all ages.”

Over the coming weeks, local announcements for projects approved through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program will take place across southern Ontario.

Other projects in the Perth-Wellington riding included:

– Stratford Rehabilitation of Market Square for $250,000;

– West Perth Repair of Harry Parrott Pumping Station for $67,161; and

– Perth East Improvements to Pioneer Park for $20,040.

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