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Clearwater splashpark gets federal funding

Clearwater, Blue River and Sun Peaks receive Canada 150 Community Infrastructure grants
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M.P. Cathy McLeod recently announced nearly $140

M.P. Cathy McLeod announced $300,000 in funding for three North Thompson communities on July 29.

Speaking at Weyerhaeuser Park in Clearwater, the federal representative for Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo said that nearly $140,000 had been allocated from the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program for a children’s splashpark.

McLeod praised Debbie Mayer, one of the splashpark’s principal proponents.

“She had a dream. She had a vision. She held everyone’s feet to the fire to move this forward,” the M.P. said.“Community centres, parks, trails, and other public spaces contribute to the strength of our communities. By helping to renew them we are ensuring that they remain useable for years to come while creating jobs and economic growth and honouring the 150th anniversary of Confederation,” McLeod added.

Yellowhead Community Services Society will manage the project, which will be located in Weyerhaeuser Park.

District of Clearwater has committed to provide land, water and sewer, said Mayor John Harwood.

Quoting television personality Mr. Rogers, Harwood said, “It’s a wonderful day in the neighborhood.”

“I can’t wait to see the ground cleared,” he added.

“Clearwater is a community that is known for its lifestyle options, including our recreation opportunities. This announcement is very exciting. The splashpark will be a great addition to our community and will go a long way in keeping and attracting young families,” the mayor said.

Money for Blue River and Sun Peaks

McLeod also announced $62,500 that will be used to upgrade the playground at Blue River Community Park.

Small communities need places for children to play, observed Willow MacDonald, Thompson-Nicola Regional District director for Area B (Thompson Headwaters). Otherwise, they will find it difficult to attract and keep young families.

MacDonald praised the staff at the regional district for helping her put the grant application together.

Sun Peaks will get $95,000 to renovate and upgrade its outdoor hockey arena.

The grant came along at the right time, according to Al Raine, the mayor of the resort municipality. It will be used to provide more lights, better boards and improved flooring as they expand the arena to NHL size.

“Cathy McLeod has been criticized for bringing too much money into her riding. Apparently, it’s one of the highest in the country,” Raine said. “I don’t see that as a problem. She’s just doing her job.”