September 25, 2009
Governments Fund White Rock Infrastructure

WHITE ROCK – Canada, B.C. and the City of White Rock have approved a joint investment of more than $6 million through the Building Canada Fund and Infrastructure Stimulus Fund to get shovels in the ground on three local projects.  These projects will benefit local residents by creating jobs, helping to boost the local economy, and build longer-lasting local infrastructure.

“The benefits of these investments are substantial," says South Surrey-White Rock- Cloverdale MP Russ Hiebert. "Not only do they generate local employment, but they also improve our community in a way that preserves our history and promotes healthy living.”

“This is an important contribution to the overall well-being and success of our community,” says Surrey-White Rock MLA Gordie Hogg.  “An active lifestyle is essential for a greater standard of living and I’m pleased our governments are working together to support local projects like the Centre for Active Living and new community walkways.  This funding is a great boost to White Rock.”

"Receiving these grants is outstanding news for the City and our residents," says White Rock Mayor Catherine Ferguson. "These projects have been long-time dreams for many groups in our community. Receiving this additional funding speaks to how much we can accomplish through collaboration and an ongoing commitment to work together. Council and our partners are most appreciative to the Province and Federal Government for their support-and for making such a significant investment in our residents' quality of life."

The combined Federal, Provincial and Municipal funds for infrastructure projects are as follows:

• $3,593,238 for an 18,000 square foot building to house the Centre for Active Living, providing exercise programs for those with chronic disease as well as traditional recreation and exercise programs.
• $1,480,800 for sidewalks in 20 locations and pedestrian crossings in 11 locations to encourage more walking in higher density neighbourhoods, and to and from the waterfront.
• $967,334 for the White Rock Museum and Archives to improve the archival and storage conditions of the museum and to revitalize structure as the cultural focal point of the waterfront.

The Government of Canada's 2009 Economic Action Plan includes a vast array of initiatives to help to stimulate the economy, create jobs, build consumer confidence, and assist Canadians when they need it most during this global economic recession.  New large-scale infrastructure programs are one important element of this plan.

The project is funded under the Province's three-year, $14-billion capital infrastructure program that will create up to 88,000 jobs and help build vital public infrastructure in every region of B.C.

Since February about 480 projects worth $3.4 billion have been announced. These will create an estimated 21,600 jobs in communities across British Columbia.

For more information on the Building Canada plan, visit www.buildingcanada.gc.ca or www.bcbuildingcanadafundcommunities.ca. Information on the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund is available at www.creatingjobs.gc.ca.

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