The finish line got a whole lot closer for the expansion project at the Kent Fitness/ Activity Centre on Wednesday.
MP Mark Strahl was in the area making funding announcements in the community, and among them was a big boost for a portion of the project. Just over $250,000 will be given to the District of Kent, specifically for the creation of the multipurpose rooms. The money comes from the Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund, as a result of the ongoing fundraising efforts behind the Community Recreation and Cultural Centre expansion.
“By investing in facilities such as this, we are helping to boost economic activity while improving local infrastructure,” said MP Strahl. “With today’s investment, our Government is demonstrating our commitment to creating jobs, growth and long-term economic prosperity.”
After the announcement, Strahl and Mayor John Van Laerhoven added a symbolic stretch of red tape to the large fundraising thermometer outside the Fitness/ Activity Centre. The fundraising committee came out to show their support of the announcement. The $250,300 brings the total raised to about $300,000, equal to about 70 per cent of the committee’s $400,000 goal.
“This is a huge boost for us,” CAO Wallace Mah said.
The mayor spoke at the announcement, saying the rooms would improve the ability to enhance programming at the centre.
“I’m just so thrilled that the facility is going to help take care of our fitness needs, our recreation needs and our cultural needs as well,” Van Laerhoven said. “It’s a real positive addition to the community.
“Thank you also to our fundraising committee, isn’t this exciting?” he asked the audience, to a round of cheers from the fundraising committee. All four councillors also attended the funding announcement.
The entire expansion project, which includes the multipurpose rooms and a gymnasium adjacent to the current centre, is earmarked at $2.5 million. Last year, the District received a $750,000 grant from the provincial government.
The fundraising committee is continuing to look for ways to fund the project, including sponsorships of varying degrees.
For more information on helping with fundraising, phone the District of Kent at 604-796-2235.
