Just under $193-million of funding has been approved for British Columbia from the Federal Gas Tax Fund, and up to $11.9-million might find its way into the Greater Victoria region.
The Federal Gas Tax fund is a permanent revenue source which is allocated twice per year to support local infrastructure priorities, and will give four local projects a boost.
Crystal Pool, Victoria
Crystal Pool and Wellness Centre, which is in the design phase of a replacement project, has been conditionally approved for $6-million in funding. The total project is slated to cost $69.4-million, and would replace a 50-year old building, increasing accessibility while expanding the small fitness area.
Commonwealth Place, Saanich
Commonwealth Place in Saanich is set to receive a $4-million allocation, which will support a major mechanical replacement. Once complete, the project should reduce the centre’s carbon footprint by 90 percent. Authorities are still in the design phase of the project, but are aiming for construction to begin in 2019.
“An investment in community infrastructure is an investment in our quality of life,” Lana Popham, MLA for Saanich South and BC Minister of Agriculture said. “I would like to recognize the partnership between all levels of government that will renew a valuable community asset for the people of Saanich.”
SEAPARC Leisure Complex, Sooke
In Sooke, a $1.24-million grant is in place to upgrade the SEAPARC Leisure Complex, which will undergo expansion. The total cost of the project is $2.75-million, meaning nearly half will be covered by the Federal Gas Tax fund. Once complete, SEAPARC will boast a gym facility and more multi-purpose spaces, in addition to the already numerous amenities.
“We are very appreciative of this grant as it allows us to build this fantastic new facility with no tax increase to our constituents,” JDF Electoral Area Director Mike Hicks said.
Oak Bay Recreation Centre, Oak Bay
Oak Bay, meanwhile, has been approved for roughly $670,000 in funding, as they aim to reduce their carbon emissions. Oak Bay Recreation Centre will be installing a heat transfer system which will re-capture wasted heat from the arena’s refrigeration system, and use it to heat other areas of the facility. As it stands, that heat currently goes out into the atmosphere.
“We are very grateful to the Province of BC and the Government of Canada for supporting this important project,” said Oak Bay Mayor Nils Jensen. “Oak Bay Council and residents are very interested in reducing greenhouse gases and our ecological footprint.”
The full list of funding announcements can be found here.
