Hon. Alice Wong, P.C.

Today, the Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State for Seniors and Member of Parliament for Richmond, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced support for Blundell Park under the Harper Government’s Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF).

“”Our Government is committed to creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity in our communities across Canada,”” said Minister Wong. “”By making these investments in Richmond, we are helping boost local economic activity and maintain a high quality of life for all residents of Richmond.””

The Harper Government’s investment of $165,300 will enhance the services provided by the City of Richmond and Richmond City Baseball Association. The funding will go towards replacing the current sod and drainage equipment on the baseball diamond, adding stands and scoreboards, and enhancing the dugouts. The Association will also expand the batting cages and create an adjacent long toss training and fielding facility.

“”We are absolutely delighted that WD came to the table, along with the City of Richmond, to help us make some major upgrades to Blundell Field that will leave a baseball legacy for decades to come,”” said Trevor Rennie, President of the Richmond City Baseball Association. “”Blundell Field will now become a major tournament site in Richmond and will contribute to the economic viability of the community. This is especially significant today in that 2013 is the 50th Anniversary of the Association and this funding will allow us to serve the youth of Richmond well for another 50 years.””

In Economic Action Plan 2012, the Harper Government announced further support to help communities across the country modernize their infrastructure. Our Government committed $150 million over two years for the Fund. The Fund supports projects that look to improve existing community infrastructure accessible for use by the public, such as community centres, recreational buildings, local arenas, cultural and other community facilities.

Since 2006, the Harper Government, through WD, has invested in job-creating small- and medium-sized businesses, aerospace, marine and defence industries, and supported innovative entrepreneurs in pursuing emerging markets. By continuing to promote new economic opportunities, WD is helping to create jobs, economic growth, and long-term prosperity.

For more information, contact:

Jaime Burke
Regional Communications Manager
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Vancouver, British Columbia
Telephone: 604-666-1318

Trevor Rennie
President
Richmond City Baseball Association
Telephone: 604-307-7504

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