Yellowknife and Fort Smith families' quality of life to benefit from improved community spaces

$440,500 Government of Canada funding will improve two ski club facilities in the Northwest Territories

YELLOWKNIFE, Nov. 6, 2017 /CNW/ - Families in Yellowknife and Fort Smith can socialize and exercise in improved community recreational spaces this winter thanks to $440,500 investment from the Government of Canada.

The funding was announced today by Michael McLeod, Member of Parliament for the Northwest Territories, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor).

The funding has helped two ski clubs in the Northwest Territories improve their facilities and services for members and local residents. The Yellowknife Ski Club is upgrading the safety and cosmetic features of the chalet, and installing a more energy-efficient heating system in time for the club's 50th anniversary. In preparation to host activities for the Arctic Winter Games in March 2018, the Fort Smith Ski Club has improved the chalet's change rooms, seating area and training space and built a children's snow park. The ski club is also in the process of upgrading its 40-kilometres trail network and biathlon range with improved signage and lighting to meet the Games' competitive-level standards.

These investments are a part of the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program, a $300-million fund established to celebrate Canada's 150th birthday through investments in community spaces that bring Canadians together. Of that amount, up to $12.8 million is being invested across the three territories.

Quotes

"This investment is a community-building project to celebrate Canada's 150th anniversary. And there's no better way to mark this milestone than to celebrate the places that bring us together—places that allow us to stay fit, unwind and connect with our friends and neighbours. That's how we establish the bonds of common understanding and friendship in a country where people come from every corner of the world. The values of openness, diversity and inclusion that define all Canadians are forged in our community spaces."  
-       The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for CanNor

"With the celebration of Canada's 150th anniversary this past summer and the 2018 Arctic Winter Games just around the corner, it's an exciting time for residents of the Northwest Territories. I'm pleased that the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program is contributing to these celebrations by investing in our quality of life and funding important community legacies now and for years to come."
-       Michael McLeod, Member of Parliament, Northwest Territories

"The Yellowknife Ski Club provides opportunities for growth, development and enjoyment through skiing. The generous contribution by CanNor through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program is allowing us to make extensive improvements to our facilities that will strengthen our role in the local community for generations."
-       Chris Joseph, President, Yellowknife Ski Club

"The Fort Smith Ski Club is looking forward to using the newly renovated facilities, trails, and the children activity area this ski season. It is our priority to deliver a premium facility for both youth and residents of the North while providing a first class venue for the 2018 Arctic Winter Games."
-       Bill Mawdsley, President, Fort Smith Ski Club

"The Yellowknife Ski Club, their members and volunteers are a tremendous asset to Yellowknife residents and visitors. The City is grateful for the many hours of work and programming the Ski Club volunteers contribute towards the success of the organization."
-       Mark Heyck, Mayor, City of Yellowknife

"The Town of Fort Smith is pleased to contribute to the Fort Smith Ski Club's Renovation and Expansion project and delighted that CanNor is investing in our community. The improvements to the ski clubhouse and trails support the Town's 2014 Proclamation to 'Become the Healthiest Community in the North,' and improve the recreational infrastructure available to residents. It is especially exciting that this project will be ready to host the international circumpolar community and cross country skiing events during the Arctic Winter Games in March 2018."
-       Lynn Napier-Buckley, Mayor, Town of Fort Smith

Quick Fact

• In addition to CanNor's investment of $133,000 over two years (2016-2018), the Yellowknife Ski Club is contributing $15,000 to their renovations, $10,000 from the City of Yellowknife, and $20,000 from the Arctic Energy Alliance. The total funding amount for this project is $178,000.
• The Fort Smith Ski Club is investing $80,000 of its own funding to the upgrades, along with CanNor's investment of $307,500 over two years (2016-2018), $12,500 in donations and $15,000 from the Municipality of Fort Smith. The total funding amount for this project is $415,000.

Associated Link

CanNor – Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program
Inuvik Arena Upgrades Help Attract Diverse Year-Round Activities

For more information about CanNor, visit cannor.gc.ca.

SOURCE Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor)