Strathcona Gardens REC-REATE Update – New Request for Funding
The SRD is preparing a second grant application request with the Canada-British Columbia Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, to offset costs in the redevelopment of Strathcona Gardens. The REC-REATE project was not selected for the first round of funding in 2019 however the program recently announced its next intake for funding, with a submission deadline of October 1, 2020.
Campbell River, BC – The Strathcona Regional District (SRD) is preparing a second grant application request with the Canada-British Columbia Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, to offset costs for the REC-REATE project, the redevelopment of Strathcona Gardens. The REC-REATE project was not selected for the first round of funding in 2019 however the program recently announced its next intake for funding, with a submission deadline of October 1, 2020.
The SRD received feedback from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing on the initial grant application that was not successful, and they stated that the program received significantly more applications than could be funded.
Based on this review, plans for the follow-up REC-REATE funding request will include a scaled-down ask that focuses on Phase 1 of the project:
- A new aquatic space
- Revitalization of the central area, weight room and rehabilitation/wellness space that run Island Health programs
- New detailed designs of the completed schematic drawings that excludes the arenas
Phase 1 of the project does not include improvements and upgrades to the ice facilities.
“We were hopeful that the entire REC-REATE funding request would have been approved initially” said Strathcona Gardens Commission Chair Andy Adams. “We are well aware of the need to revitalize the Ice Arenas and staff will continue to pursue future funding opportunities as they arise. Narrowing the focus to Phase 1 only while moving to the detailed design stage will better position the project as shovel ready.”
The proposal to proceed with detailed design was approved by the SRD board today, August 19. The anticipated cost to complete the design, procurement phases and construction of phase 1 will be determined once procurement to select a prime consultant and subconsultants is completed. Should the grant application be successful, construction could begin in Fall 2021.
The goal of REC-REATE is to renew the facility to address ageing components and to deliver recreation services that the community desires in an exciting, sustainable, safe and inclusive environment. Keep up-to-date with the latest news by checking out the details at www.RecreateSG.ca
-30-
Media contact:
Wolfang Parada
REC-REATE Project Manager
250-830-6709 | wparada@srd.ca