Environment and Conservation
August 20, 2010YMCA-YWCA Goes Green in St. John's
A project that will help reduce soil erosion, keep storm water out of
the sewer system and provide a constant supply of water to wetlands will
receive funding in the amount of $40,000 from the Newfoundland and
Labrador Green Fund. The funding will be used to implement a drainage
swale at the new multi-purpose health, fitness and recreation facility
currently under construction in St. John's.
"We are pleased to provide this additional funding to make the new
facility as environmentally sustainable as possible," said the
Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Environment and Conservation.
"Implementing a drainage swale demonstrates the importance of
adaptation, energy efficiency and good environmental practices. This
project is truly another example of environmental sustainability for
recreational facilities in our province."
Last year, the Green Fund provided $400,000 in funding to the
YMCA-YWCA for energy efficiency upgrades including the installation of a
ground source heat pump at the new facility. The project is expected to
reduce energy consumption by 400,000 kWh/year, which is equal to 300
tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions per year.
"A commitment to environmental responsibility is important to the Y
in the development of our new facility," said Jason Brown, President and
CEO, YMCA-YWCA of Northeast Avalon. "We are grateful to receive funding
support for the Ches Penney Family Y for the drainage swale and ground
source heating. This partnership is important to us as we work harder
to build the best possible facility to serve individuals and families
throughout the region."
The YMCA-YWCA is building a health, fitness and recreation facility
at the corner of Ridge Road and Higgins Line in Pippy Park, St. John's.
The facility will use accessibility features, including a daycare,
community space and administrative offices. It is expected to open late
spring of 2011 and service up to 65,000 users by the end of 2014.
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