The Stephenville Arts and Culture Centre is getting a make-over.

The Provincial Government has awarded a tender totalling $699,500 to Pittman�s Enterprises Ltd. of St. Paul�s to install new siding on the 52-year-old building. The Honourable Joan Burke, MHA for St. George�s-Stephenville East, made the announcement today, on behalf of the Honourable Dianne Whalen, Minister of Transportation and Works, at the Stephenville Arts and Culture Centre.

"Whether it be theatrical productions, Christmas concerts or music shows, our Arts and Culture Centre provides a professional venue for both performers and audiences," said Minister Burke. "This renovation will help our centre remain an important piece of community infrastructure. An improved Arts and Culture Centre will also better support our provincial $10 million Cultural Connections strategy whose goal is to increase the presence of cultural content in the curriculum and foster links between artists and students."

Minister Burke said the building�s exterior wall is now simply painted concrete block, which is showing signs of deterioration such as cracks, staining, and peeling paint. The project includes supply and installation of metal siding, with a strip of simulated stone veneer at ground elevation.

Prior to installation, the exterior surfaces will be repaired, including an insulation upgrade. New windows and doors are also part of the contract. Additionally, the main entrance has been redesigned to prevent water and air infiltration into the building, and will improve both the aesthetics and energy efficiency of the building. The work is expected to commence this spring.

"This project is funded through the Provincial Government�s Infrastructure Strategy, valued at more than $2 billion," Minister Whalen said. "This strategy addresses the province�s infrastructure deficit, which includes everything from roads to ferries and as in this case, provincially-owned buildings."

The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, said the province�s Arts and Culture Centres are important pieces of community infrastructure which serve the development and expression of cultural life.

"The Stephenville Arts and Culture Centre is the heart of cultural activity in the Bay St. George region," Minister Jackman said. "This facelift will ensure the exterior appearance of the building will more accurately reflect the quality of the performances and experiences being undertaken within its walls."

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2008 03 14                                                  10:40 a.m.