Colin Mayes, MP -- Okanagan - Shuswap - Harper Government Takes Action to Improve Community Facilities in British Columbia

Harper Government Takes Action to Improve Community Facilities in British Columbia

July 05, 2012

VANCOUVER – Today the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification officially announced that community facilities, such as local arenas, community centres, and sports fields across the West, are now eligible for upgrades thanks to the launch of the new Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF).

“The Harper Government is committed to creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity in our communities,” said Minister Yelich. “The Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund will provide an important economic boost in British Columbia by stimulating construction activity and creating local jobs. By improving the quality of our community facilities, we are also ensuring our residents have local gathering spaces for years to come.”

CIIF will support, on a cost-shared basis, repairs and improvements to existing community infrastructure that is accessible to the public. Local, regional and First Nation governments, as well as community not-for-profit organizations with projects that can be completed before March 31, 2014 are invited to apply for funding.

Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) is delivering over $46 million in funding towards projects in Western Canada.

The deadline to apply is August 2, 2012. There will be a second call for applications in November and additional intakes if funding is available. For details on project eligibility and how to submit an application, please refer to www.wd-deo.gc.ca.

This national program provides $150 million to be delivered by regional development agencies across the country.