Three levels of government recently announced a joint investment of more than $1.2 million to support the preliminary planning and design phase for the new regional aquatic centre in Fredericton.

“The vision for the new aquatic centre is now one step closer to being realized with today’s announcement,” said Social Development Minister Jill Green, who is also minister responsible for housing. “The project is a great example of how communities can work together to advance major infrastructure projects to benefit residents of the region.”

Green spoke on behalf of Réjean Savoie, minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation.

The investment will help the Capital Regional Service Commission prepare a preliminary design and engineering plan for the eventual construction of the new centre. The project goal is to expand the existing Grant-Harvey Centre to include a new facility that will replace the Sir Max Aitken Pool at the Fredericton campus of the University of New Brunswick.

“The new regional aquatic centre planning project builds on our government’s priority to support community and recreation infrastructure that will promote an active and healthy lifestyle for Canadians,” said Fredericton MP Jenica Atwin. “Investing in this type of project helps to create vibrant and sustainable communities which are the foundation for making cities like Fredericton even better places to live.”

Atwin attended for federal Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities Minister Dominic LeBlanc.

The province is investing $423,405 in the project while the federal government is providing $508,137 and the commission is contributing $338,800.

“On behalf of the Capital Region Service Commission, we are pleased to be part of this announcement that will see this project enter the architectural and design phase,” said commission chair Judy Wilson-Shee, who is also mayor of New Maryland. “We are fortunate to have all levels of government participating in this process, and we will require their support throughout the project. This is a great example of co-operation.”

The project will determine the most effective method of implementing the addition through schematic design, design development, and construction documents to provide a recreational aquatic centre that supports the health and wellness needs of the region.

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