The federal government is raining $2.7 million on a series of North Shore recreation projects.
The Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada announced the grant funding on Wednesday for seven projects in North Vancouver and on Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) land.
Among the larger grants is $750,000 towards the Squamish Nation’s multi-use replacement for their now defunct lacrosse box.
“Our old facility served the Nation’s residents for many years but was at the end of its life cycle and needed to be replaced. This beautiful new facility will be multi-purpose and contribute greatly to the health and wellness of our members for years to come,” said Sxwixwtn (Wilson Williams), spokesperson and elected council member for the Nation.
The District of North Vancouver is benefiting from a $750,000 injection going toward construction of a field house, including accessible washrooms and community storage space, at Delbrook Park. The grant will help offset the $3 million cost to local taxpayers. The district is aiming to have the facility online by the end of the year.
The City of North Vancouver, meanwhile, has been given two grants of $97,500 and $500,000, all going toward upgraded accessible sidewalks along Lonsdale Avenue and mobility lane and streetscape improvements on Esplanade, including accessible footpaths, public seating, bike racks, safety barriers, fencing and lighting.
Another $217,500 is helping to cover the cost of a permanent skate park in Mahon Park.
City Mayor Linda Buchanan welcomed the funding and offered thanks to the federal government in a statement.
“Communities need renewed local infrastructure to support a robust, growing economy as well as people’s health and wellbeing. With many assets reaching end of life, and limited tools for generating revenue, cities rely on grants such as the Canada Community Revitalization Fund to build for the future,” she said. “These improvements will mean more foot traffic for businesses as well as improved safety and comfort for people.”
The Greater Vancouver Water District, the branch of Metro Vancouver that supplies the region’s drinking water but also runs the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve, has been granted $354,000 for the $4.5-million Watershed Centre revitalization. The grant money will go toward new trail connections, interpretive signs and public amenities including water fountains, a seating area and bike racks, as well as replanting of native species in the area.
And Grouse Mountain is getting just shy of $100,000 from a separate fund dedicated to projects intended to help the tourism industry recover. The resort is putting cash toward its handle tow lift built for the Side Cut Terrain Park.
“North Vancouver is home to world-class outdoor pursuits and activity. With over $2.7 million in funding, the Government of Canada is creating even more exceptional opportunities for visitors and locals alike to experience the best of this community,” said North Vancouver MP Jonathan Wilkinson in the release.
