FREDERICTON (CNB) - The provincial government is providing an additional investment in support of the Grant-Harvey Recreational Complex under construction in Fredericton.

Premier Shawn Graham, Finance Minister Greg Byrne and Fredericton Mayor Brad Woodside participated in the announcement today at the construction site for the complex.

"Our government is pleased to be making an additional investment in this important recreational project for Fredericton," said Graham. "Ensuring that we have good recreational facilities will help improve the quality of life for city and area residents, strengthen our communities, and help us keep more of our young people home."

The provincial government is providing an additional investment of $2.5 million for the complex, situated on a (18-ha) 45-acre site on Knowledge Park Drive near the intersection of the Vanier Highway and Kimble Drive. This is in addition to the $1-million investment announced in 2006 under the Canada-New Brunswick Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund.

The complex will feature an arena, an artificial turf field and a six-court indoor tennis facility.

"Building recreational infrastructure as impressive as the Grant-Harvey Centre is made possible through partnerships like the one we are celebrating today with the Province of New Brunswick," said Woodside. "This regional sport hub will benefit Fredericton and the surrounding region for many years to come, contributing to the health and wellness of our community."

The Grant Harvey Recreational Complex arena will feature an Olympic-size ice surface, an NHL-size ice surface, a three-lane walking/running track, a community event room and multi-purpose meeting room and full kitchen facilities. The new artificial turf field is to be constructed next to the arena with plans for an indoor six-court tennis facility on site.