News Release

SUSSEX (CNB) – A sod-turning was held today to mark the official start of construction of the Fundy Civic Centre in Sussex.

The event was attended by Premier David Alward; Fundy Royal MP Rob Moore; Sussex Mayor Ralph Carr; and board members of the Fundy Civic Centre.

"The Fundy Civic Centre will give the communities in this region a place to come together and develop," said Alward. "This project is an investment in the wellness of our youth, seniors and families."

The centre will provide area residents with a community meeting place, an indoor aquatic facility and a fitness centre, including a walking track.
 
"The health of the Canadian economy and support for jobs and growth is our government's number one priority," said Moore. "Investments in projects such as the Fundy Civic Centre generate employment during their construction phase and create valuable community infrastructure that families and local residents will benefit from for years to come. From swimming classes and yoga instruction to a community meeting space, this facility will add to the quality of life that the people of Sussex enjoy."

Moore was representing Bernard Valcourt, minister of state for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and la Francophonie.

"Sussex residents have been proud supporters of the future Fundy Civic Centre from the beginning," said Carr. "Our residents and Sussex council are excited and are looking forward to the construction of this during the next few months. We are proud of the future facility, the work of the Fundy Civic Centre board and the benefits this new facility will bring to the town and the region."

The centre is expected to play a valuable role in contributing to the economic and social development of the area. Events and initiatives supported by the centre are expected to benefit area entrepreneurs, including those involved in the food service sector, local retailers, tourism operators and other service industry members.
 
The provincial and federal governments are investing $2 million to enable the Town of Sussex to move forward with the project. This support will cover the increased costs associated with the project originally announced in July 2007.

In 2007, the federal, provincial and municipal governments each announced investments of $1.3 million in the project. The provincial government’s Regional Development Corporation provided an additional $300,000.

Contributions from Sussex Corner, Norton and the surrounding local service districts as well as a fund-raising campaign also contributed to the project.