AMHERSTBURG SCORES SPORTS COMPLEX

AMHERSTBURG SCORES SPORTS COMPLEX
Governments Join Together To Create Up To 240 New Jobs

NEWS

Families in the Amherstberg area will soon be able to skate, run and cheer at a new multi-use sports complex, the construction of which will create up to 240 jobs.

The federal and provincial governments will each contribute almost $7 million to the sports complex, which will feature advanced green technology and safety standards. The Town of Amherstburg will provide the remainder of the estimated $24 million project.

The new sports complex will feature two hockey rinks, two recreational fields and two baseball diamonds, one specifically designed for people with intellectual and physical disabilities. The baseball diamond will be the first of its kind in Canada.

Funding for the sports complex is part of the Building Canada Fund Communities Component, a federal-provincial investment program. Together with municipalities, $1 billion will be invested in Ontario infrastructure projects.

QUOTES

"All across our province there are hundreds of construction projects, just like this one, that are now underway, creating thousands of jobs. This means more people shopping in local stores, going to local restaurants and keeping their community strong."

- Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario

"By investing in Amherstburg, we are investing in the heart of Ontario. In the face of trying economic times, infrastructure investments are vital not only to create jobs today, but also to create the links between communities and regions to help generate jobs for the future."

- John Baird, Canada's Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities.

"This new sports complex isn't just about a building - it's about building community. Everyone will be able to take part in activities at the new sports complex."

- Bruce Crozier, MPP Essex

"This is a marquis project which our Government can be justifiably proud to have partnered in. The funds announced today double my commitment to see this most worthy of projects to a successful outcome. I couldn't be more pleased."

- Jeff Watson, Member of Parliament for Essex.

QUICK FACTS

- The Amherstburg sports complex is one of 22 recreation and sports infrastructure projects Ontario is helping to fund.

- The specially designed baseball diamond will have a rubber playing surface so children with walkers and wheelchairs can get around the bases easier.

- NHL players from Essex County include Kevin Westgarth, Aaron Ward and Kyle Wellwood.