Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
March 6, 2009Regional Arena
Receives Provincial Government Investment to Expand
A Provincial Government investment of more than
$42,000 is enabling the Straits-St. Barbe Arena to undertake
improvements that will better position the facility to host trade shows,
recreational programs, and other events. Through increasing its ability
to host larger, year-round events, it will bring economic benefits to
the area.
"The Provincial Government is a committed partner in
working with communities to help develop infrastructure that helps
stimulate economic and social activity," said the Honourable Shawn
Skinner, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. "Our
investment in the Straits-St. Barbe Arena increases the region�s
capacity for hosting larger functions and events that contribute to the
growing local businesses."
Enhancements to the arena will include additional
meeting and small conference space, as well as the development of
improved canteen, viewing, and other multi-purpose additions. With such
improvements, the upgraded facility will additionally help encourage
greater utilization and a more active lifestyle in the region.
"The completion of this project will be a valuable
asset to the region," says Wallace Young, MHA, St. Barbe. "It provides a
venue to promote healthy living, expand existing programs and attract
new business to the area."
The Straits-St. Barbe Arena Association, a non-profit
organization, manages the facility on a day-to-day basis and is working
closely with the St. Barbe Development Association on improving the
facility.
"Over recent years we have worked with the Provincial
Government to secure the funding to further develop our local arena,"
said Jarvis Walsh, co-chair of The Straits-St. Barbe Arena Association.
"We are pleased to have this investment in place and to begin to
develop the arena so that we further increase the scope of available
activities."
Funding for the initiative was through the Regional/Sectoral
Diversification Fund (RSDF). Administered by the Department of
Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, the RSDF is a $5-million fund
that provides non-repayable contributions to economic development
agencies for initiatives that address regional and sectoral development
and diversification.
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