Queen Elizabeth Pool Receives Federal Funding for Redevelopment Announcement

July 20, 2009

Edmonton, Alberta - The redevelopment and construction of the Queen Elizabeth Pool in Edmonton received federal support thanks to the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program, a major job-creating investment from Canada's Economic Action Plan.

Today, the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Labour, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced federal funding that not only creates jobs, but also improves a vital Edmonton recreational infrastructure asset.

"Our Government is proud to support as important a landmark as Queen Elizabeth Pool," said Minister Ambrose. "This investment will create jobs and ensure that this facility will continue to serve Edmontonians as it has for the last 80 years."

Funding of $1 million is provided through the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program under Canada's Economic Action Plan.

"Queen Elizabeth Pool is an important part of Edmonton's history, and is a great resource for the generations of today and tomorrow," said Edmonton Mayor Stephen Mandel. "We are creating an inclusive and accessible facility where everyone can participate, and this announcement brings needed dollars to this project. The participation of the Federal government is valued in this important step in realizing our vision of a vibrant and active city."

The RInC investment supports the construction of a six-lane pool that will accommodate diving and other activities. Additional features will include easy and accessible entry for children and seniors, diving boards, a spray park and picnic area, and mechanical and filtration systems.

"This funding will enable us to not only build the pool, but also add many other important features that would not have otherwise been possible," said John Stobbe, President of the Friends of the Queen Elizabeth Pool Society. "The citizens of Edmonton will once again have a first class outdoor swimming facility that will be the new pride in Edmonton's River Valley."

The Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program, is part of Canada's Economic Action Plan. RInC will invest $500 million in recreational facilities across Canada over a two-year period. It will provide a temporary economic stimulus that will help reduce the impacts of the global recession while renewing, upgrading and expanding recreational infrastructure in Canadian communities.

Visit the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program in the West, or Canada's Economic Action Plan for more information.