Pasadena gets funding for Ski and Nature Park

The Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development will provide $86,100 from its Regional Sectoral Diversification Fund to develop the Pasadena Ski and Nature Park. By constructing a ski chalet and enhancing the trail system, the facility will provide full recreation and interpretation services to operate as a multi-seasonal ski and nature park.

�The addition of a new ski chalet, along with the extension and upgrading of trails, will translate into many exciting opportunities for the park and region overall,� said Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. �It is anticipated that this project will offer local opportunities in employment, economic development, and tourism and recreation, to name a few.�

The new 2000 sq. ft. chalet will accommodate 200 people and provide the space for ski instruction, event/program planning, equipment rentals, storage, food service, and offices. The enhancement of the trail system will involve extending the trail itself, providing lighting, purchasing grooming equipment, and installing signage. The Pasadena Ski and Nature Park will be an ideal tourist attraction for both the summer and winter, and will also serve as a key venue for the 2006 provincial winter games.

�We are very excited about the generous contribution from the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development�s newly created fund for regional economic development,� said Wally Skinner, president of the Pasadena Ski and Nature Park. �It is an essential component of this project�s funding, and very much needed to finally get our project underway.�

The Regional Sectoral Diversification Fund is a $5 million fund of the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development and a component of the province�s Comprehensive Regional Diversification Strategy. The fund provides non-repayable contributions to economic development agencies for initiatives that address regional and sectoral development, diversification and innovation.

Media contact: Lynn Evans, Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, (709) 729-4570, 690-6290

2005 08 26                              9:15 a.m.