Winnipeg, MB - To celebrate the 30th anniversary of Eldon Ross Pool, Local Government Minister Ron Lemieux and Mayor Sam Katz, today announced funding for a new basketball court and skateboard component at Pacific Dee Park.
“The province considers recreational infrastructure an important part of community life,” said Lemieux. “Sports and healthy outdoor activities give youth a positive outlet for their energy and can provide a safe site for family fun. A new basketball court and skateboard site will provide free entertainment that can be enjoyed by families and children of all ages.”
The Province of Manitoba and City of Winnipeg are providing joint funding of $150,000 for the basketball court and skateboard component through the Building Communities Initiative (BCI) II partnership. The projects supported through BCI II increase community confidence by attracting, supporting and helping retain local residents and businesses. Projects are selected in consultation with key stakeholders and community groups.
“The construction of this new basketball court and skateboard component will serve this community for many years to come,” said Mayor Katz. “Outdoor recreational opportunities are essential for healthy communities and this court is another example of a fun, safe place for our children and youth to gather.”
“The new court is another step in creating a recreational atmosphere in the Brooklands community where families want to visit regularly,” said Councillor Scott Fielding, St. James - Brooklands ward. “In addition to the court, new murals have also been painted at the location which complements the revitalized water spray facility that opened last summer.”
Construction of the court will happen in the fall of 2013.
“Revitalizing or developing new recreational areas creates a strong anchor for communities, the children and families who live there,” said Ted Marcelino, MLA for Tyndall Park. “This project clearly demonstrates the importance we place on encouraging individuals and families to stay active and keep fit.”
The Pacific Dee Park basketball court project is one of 34 BCI II, phase two projects announced in March 2013. The BCI is a multi-year, cost-shared capital initiative developed jointly by the Manitoba government and the City of Winnipeg. The goal of the funding is to support community revitalization through improvements to local infrastructure in targeted older neighbourhoods and contribute to the vitality, safety and health of communities throughout the city.
Phase One of BCI II provided a total of $10 million between 2010 and 2013. Of the 37 approved projects under the first phase, 31 have been completed, with the remaining six to be completed in the 2013 construction season. Projects included improving athletic fields, playgrounds and structures, splash pads, lighting, seating, pathways in parks, upgrades and expansion of community centres.
In addition to celebrating the 30th anniversary of Eldon Ross Pool, new vibrant murals, located at the Eldon Ross water spray facility, were also unveiled today. The colourful murals, created by local artist Mandy Van Leeuwen in partnership with Take Pride Winnipeg, depict a water theme.