News Release

NEW MARYLAND (GNB) – The New Maryland Lions Club and the New Maryland Home and School Association have unveiled plans for a new accessible playground, with funding from the provincial, federal and municipal governments.

“The provincial government invests in community projects such as this new accessible playground to promote active, healthy lifestyles,” said deputy premier Stephen Horsman. “We are proud to be a partner in this important recreational community project for the entire community of New Maryland.”

Horsman spoke on behalf of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Donald Arseneault, who is minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation.

“The Government of Canada continues to make positive investments through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program,” said Fredericton MP Matt DeCourcey. “I am pleased that we are able to work with the New Maryland Lions Club to contribute to a new accessible community space at the New Maryland Elementary School that ensures everyone can participate in healthy and fun activities on an equal basis.”

DeCourcey attended for federal Innovation, Science and Economic Development Minister Navdeep Bains, who is the minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).

The project includes upgrades to the school’s playground facilities to offer a range of activities that are safe and inclusive for all residents.

The provincial government, through the Regional Development Corporation, is contributing $50,000 in the project. The federal government is investing $93,834 through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program. The Village of New Maryland is contributing $16,500. The New Maryland Lions Club, in collaboration with the New Maryland Home and School Association, is contributing $55,166.

“Mayor and council, in partnership with the New Maryland Elementary School and working closely with the Home and School Association, are pleased that we are able to contribute financially to their major project, which includes upgrades to their playground structures that will benefit the children of our community and surrounding areas for many years to come,” said mayor Judy Wilson-Shee.

“It has been a lot of hard work and community involvement, but we are extremely excited to see the playground becoming a reality for our school and community,” said Erica Ward, president of the New Maryland Home and School Association. “A big thank-you goes out to ACOA, the Province of New Brunswick, the Lions Club, the Village of New Maryland, and all of the various organizations who made contributions.”