Chilliwack/Hope/Harrison (Media Release/Times) – Chilliwack-Fraser Canyon MP Mark Strahl joined Mayor Sharon Gaetz and city councilors for an announcement of a half-million-dollar upgrade to the Landing Spray Park downtown Chilliwack. This was one of four Fraser Valley projects receiving a cash infusion.
City of Chilliwack Coun. Sam Waddington, left to right, Chilliwack-Fraser Canyon MP Mark Strahl, Chilliwack Mayor Sharon Gaetz and Coun. Chris Kloot at the Landing Spray Park Tuesday.— image credit: City of Chilliwack
Strahl was on hand to announce the $225,000 contribution is a Western Economic Diversification Canada grant.
The city will contribute a further $250,000 for a total project cost of $475,000.
The 2,020-square-metre Landing Spray Park was constructed in 2004. The spray pad area is currently 425 square metres and will be enlarged by an extra 280 square metres with the renovation, and will include new water features.
The heavily used spray park will also see renovations to the existing grass/picnic/viewing area.
City hall said the project construction will begin April 1, 2016 with a projected completion date of March 31, 2017 in time for the July 1, 2017 Canada 150 Celebrations.
The water park was one of four projects to receive monies:
|
Proponent |
Description |
Canada 150 Funding Amount |
|
The Hope Curling Club |
Paint the Hope Curling Club Exterior |
$5,100 |
|
City of Chilliwack |
Renovate the Chilliwack Landing Spray Park |
$225,000 |
|
Fraser Valley Regional District |
Upgrade Village of Harrison Hot Springs East Sector Lands park |
$24,250 |
|
Stó:lō Nation |
Upgrade Stó:lō Coqualeetza cultural site buildings in Chilliwack |
$171,200 |
It is great to note that there is funding available for these 4 projects. Congratulations! My a-list project for funding would be to restore the exterior of Prospera Centre as well as maintaining the landscaped grounds. Once a “centre piece” for the community, this facility has turned into a messy embarrassment to Chilliwack. I frequent the area many times, attending hockey games. Many people I talk with regarding this area are equally upset with the lack of pride demonstrated by the stakeholders for the upkeep of the arena. Take a closer look people, as you go by you will notice graffiti on the wall, garbage strewn all about, rust laden yellow railing on the stairs, and a very messy excuse for landscaped grounds. With Chilliwack hosting not only the annual BCHL SHOWCASE this September, but the prestigious RBC CUP in 2018 featuring championship teams from across Canada, there will be plenty of attention and scrutiny as dignitaries, fans, players, and of course our mayor and MLA’s will proudly welcome all. Can you imagine what people would think if the facility and surrounding area looked like it presently appears? Chilliwack would be a laughing stock. Let’s voice our opinion loud and proud Chilliwack citizens! This is our home, it represents everyone of us. I have contacted several of the key organizations with a vested interest in this situation. I am pleased to note that the Prospera Credit Union Corporate staff have assured me that something will be done shortly to rectify this problem. Should we collectively hold our breath? I am taking the high road!