Government of Canada Invests $577,080 to Enhance Community Infrastructure in Ayr
Posted on Friday February 24, 2023
Government of Canada invests $577,080.00 to enhance community infrastructure in Ayr
FedDev Ontario supports Schmidt Park project to fuel community revitalization and create conditions for local economies to rebound
Feb. 24, 2022 – Ayr, Ontario
Community infrastructure is at the heart of local communities, bringing together residents and visitors alike, while supporting local businesses, jobs and economies.
Today, on behalf of the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), Bryan May, Member of Parliament for Cambridge – North Dumfries, announced an investment of $577,080.00 to enhance North Dumfries under the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF). This investment will enhance community infrastructure to support local economic growth and quality of life for residents and visitors of North Dumfries.
This project will revitalize Schmidt Park by expanding accessible trails, installing a play structure, and creating dedicated physical and social areas; which will reinvent outdoor spaces and increase the accessibility of community sites.
Quotes
“It is critical that we as a government invest in the necessary infrastructure to support the mental and physical health of all in our communities. This investment promotes social interaction, boosts local economies and creates jobs. Programs like the Canada Community Revitalization Fund will bring people together while improving their quality of life.”
- The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
“This project will benefit the residents of Ayr and surrounding areas by providing safe and accessible recreational opportunities, encouraging social interaction, and improving the quality of life for residents. I have always strongly supported the creation of accessible spaces for everyone, and this project will help to reduce barriers and open opportunities for recreation for all residents. This is an important investment in our community, and I am proud to be part of making it happen. I look forward to seeing the finished product and taking the opportunity to enjoy it with the rest of you.”
- Bryan May, Member of Parliament for Cambridge-North Dumfries
“The Township is very appreciative of the Federal Government’s Grant award in support of the redevelopment and expansion of outdoor programming space in Schmidt Park. The completion of this project will establish a destination to support four seasons programming opportunities that will attract individuals and families of all ages and all abilities. Parks and open space represent a vital component of community identity and a place to foster social engagement and leisure pursuits.
Grant awards such as the Canada Community Revitalization Fund facilitate smaller communities such as North Dumfries in being able to pursue these larger scale projects on behalf of our residents.”
- Mayor Sue Foxton
Quick Facts
- With a national investment of $500 million over two years, the Canada Community Revitalization Fund supports projects that build new community infrastructure and revitalize existing assets, bring people back to public spaces safely, create jobs and stimulate local economies. This includes $139 million for projects in southern Ontario, delivered by FedDev Ontario.
- The Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) is helping communities across Canada build and improve community infrastructure projects so they can continue to rebound from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Eligible recipients may receive a non-repayable contribution of up to 75 percent of total eligible project costs of an infrastructure project. Recipients will be responsible for providing the remaining balance. Under the Fund, RDAs can contribute up to 100 percent funding for projects with Indigenous groups.
- The project will benefit the residents of Ayr and surrounding areas by providing safe and accessible recreational opportunities by reducing barriers to recreation for all residents, regardless of their abilities; it will encouraging social interaction and improve the quality of life for residents; and revitalize the downtown core and outdoor spaces.
- Scope of Work:
- Manufacturing and installation of accessible climbing apparatus and swings;
- Construction of a new 2 m wide Organic Lock trail & 2 m wide asphalt trail linking entry points at the southern end of the Park, linking to the central areas of the “green space” and extending through to Scott Street at the north. Total length of the new trail system within the Park is approximately 612 metres;
- Installation of concrete pads for benches & receptacles, and concrete slabs to accommodate the installation of two shade / covered seating structures;
- Installation of infiltration galleries to improve site drainage;
- Construction of an armour stone seating outdoor education area; and;
- Planting of new trees and shrubs.
- Project Budget:
- $1,004,000
- The Federal Grant to complete this project is $577,080 with the balance funded by the Township of North Dumfries.