Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development
Municipal and Intergovernmental Affairs
September 10, 2015

Strengthening Communities Through Investments in Infrastructure

Over $552,000 Places Cobb�s Pond Park Redevelopment on the Path to Success

To strengthen the Town of Gander�s ability to beautify the community, enhance the potential to attract families, and add appeal to groups holding events, the Provincial Government has provided $552,637 in continued support of the Cobb�s Pond Park Redevelopment Project. Funding has been provided by the Departments of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development, and Municipal and Intergovernmental Affairs.

�The Town of Gander is a wonderful location to raise a family and enjoy an active lifestyle, while also being an ideal location for hosting various events. To strengthen opportunities, the town has identified the development of ancillary amenities, such as the Cobb�s Pond Park Redevelopment, as a priority and the Provincial Government is proud to contribute over $552,000 towards this initiative. Strong communities with important services and amenities are essential to maintaining and increasing the province�s population, and our government is committed to supporting such initiatives, as outlined in our Population Growth Strategy.�
- The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development

Redevelopment of Cobb's Pond Park will involve widening the trail system and modernizing trail facilities to reflect the current park infrastructure and increase the appeal of Gander. When completed, the Cobb�s Pond venue will provide a contemporary, accessible and safe venue for both residents and visitors.

�The development at Cobb�s Pond Park is an example of supporting economic development opportunities and strengthening communities in our province. The trail, boardwalk and lookouts at the site will provide more recreational and leisure opportunities for residents and visitors. This investment will also allow for spin-off opportunities for local businesses by attracting visitors to the community.�
- The Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister of Municipal and Intergovernmental Affairs

Funding for the Cobb�s Pond Project was provided through the Regional Development Fund, which provides support by way of non-repayable contributions to organizations for the development and implementation of economic initiatives. Additional information on funding opportunities provided by the Department of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development and how to apply can be found by visiting: www.btcrd.gov.nl.ca/regionaldev/index.html 

�The Cobb's Pond Rotary Park is a great example of community-based development. The citizens of Gander have supported this project from its very humble beginnings, and with completion of this full redevelopment, they can take tremendous pride in a facility that truly reflects the quality of life we've worked so hard to achieve.�
- Claude Elliott, Mayor of Gander

Helping communities stabilize and grow their population through economic development opportunities is a key element of Live Here, Work Here, Belong Here, A Population Growth Strategy for Newfoundland and Labrador, 2015-2025. The strategy will ensure investments and programs are aligned to encourage individuals to choose Newfoundland and Labrador to live, work and raise a family. For more information visit www.homeforgoodnl.ca .

QUICK FACTS

• The Provincial Government has provided $552,637 in support of phase two of the Cobb�s Pond Park Redevelopment Project.
• Cobb�s Pond Rotary Park has been identified by the Town of Gander as the attraction with the largest appeal and potential to be a key community enhancement, making Gander a more attractive location for families to settle and groups to hold events.
• The Population Growth Strategy is supported by four action plans covering the main elements of population growth � workforce, families, communities and immigration. For more information visit www.homeforgoodnl.ca .

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Media contacts:

Tansy Mundon Director of Communications Department of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development 709-729-4570, 693-1865 tansymundon@gov.nl.ca	Kevin Guest Director of Communications Department of Municipal and Intergovernmental Affairs Government of Newfoundland and Labrador 709-729-1983, 730-2320 kevinjguest@gov.nl.ca
Greg Seaward Media Coordinator Town of Gander 709-651-5909 gseaward@gandercanada.com

2015 09 10                             11:45 a.m.