The governments of Canada and Quebec announced joint funding of more than $17 million for seven recreational and sports infrastructure projects in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region.
This new infrastructure will enable the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region to create living environments that are attractive to families and workers, while stimulating local economic recovery. Of note, financial assistance totalling over $12.4 million will be used to build an aquatic centre in Rouyn-Noranda. The centre will house a competition pool, along with a recreation section, mechanical rooms, a laundry room, locker rooms, a storage room, a lifeguard office, bleachers, toilet and shower facilities, offices, multi-purpose rooms, and space overlooking the pools. Parking areas and related work are also planned.
“We are extremely pleased with the funding granted for the Rouyn-Noranda aquatic centre project, a priority for our city council,” said Diane Dallaire, Mayor of Rouyn-Noranda. “This high-quality infrastructure will have a major impact on the health and quality of life of the population. Designed to meet the needs of young and old alike, this aquatic centre will be a source of pride for our 43,000 citizens.”
In Abitibi-Témiscamingue, the Government of Canada is investing over $8.6 million through the Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, while the Government of Quebec is also investing over $8.6 million through its Programme d’aide financière aux infrastructures récréatives et sportives [financial assistance program for recreational and sports infrastructure].
“This important investment of over $12 million will allow the whole community to benefit from new recreational and sports facilities, while generating considerable economic spinoffs,” said Pierre Dufour, Minister of Forests, Wildlife and Parks, Minister Responsible for the Abitibi-Témiscamingue Region and the Nord-du-Québec Region, and MNA for Abitibi-Est. “This excellent news will mean that we can continue to develop and deliver services to our community.”
