Minister Prentice Announces Support for Calgary’s Parks and Pools

July 08, 2010

Calgary, Alberta – The City of Calgary will revitalize Canmore Park and Rotary Park, as well as upgrade five outdoor swimming pools managed by the Calgary Outdoor Swimming Pool Association thanks to a major job-creating investment from Canada’s Economic Action Plan. These projects will enhance Calgary’s recreational infrastructure, while stimulating economic activity.

“By investing in Calgary’s parks and pools, our government is helping to create jobs while upgrading parks and pools that all residents can enjoy,” said the Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of the Environment and Member of Parliament for Calgary Centre – North, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification.

At both Rotary Park and Canmore Park, the City of Calgary is replacing existing wading pools with re-circulating splash pads, while buildings are receiving necessary upgrades to siding, roofing and windows. Each park is being equipped with new seating and gathering areas, pedestrian corridors, water features, trees and shrub beds.

Kyle Ripley, manager for Parks Planning and Development, notes that, “these upgrades allowed the City of Calgary to use new technology that increases environmental sustainability and decreases our environmental footprint. The City of Calgary is committed to reducing our environmental impact and to providing a safe and engaging community for our citizens, visitors and employees.”

Federal funding is also supporting the Calgary Outdoor Swimming Pool Association’s efforts to replace deck grates with new models at five of Calgary’s outdoor pools. The modernization of these outdoor pool areas will benefit local community residents for years to come.

“The Calgary Outdoor Swimming Pools Association (COSPA) is pleased to be receiving this funding from the RInC program. These funds will assist COSPA in pursuing our mission to ensure the provision of safe and secure outdoor pool facilities for the fitness and recreational swimming needs of citizens of Calgary” said Jenny Jensen, President.

Federal funding of $500,671 for the City of Calgary and $20,168 for the Calgary Outdoor Swimming Pool Association is provided through the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program as part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan.

The Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program will invest $500 million in recreational facilities across Canada over a two-year period. It will provide a temporary economic stimulus that will help reduce the impacts of the global recession while renewing, upgrading and expanding recreational infrastructure in Canadian communities. Western Economic Diversification Canada is delivering the program in Western Canada.

Visit the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program in the West, or Canada's Economic Action Plan for more information.