Kids applauded the ground breaking of a new playground behind the Greater Vernon Recreation Centre last Friday.

(CHARLOTTE HELSTON / iNFOnews.ca)

GREATER VERNON - As the heat wave rolled in last week, the North Okanagan Regional District announced three building projects which will enhance outdoor experiences in the area.

The projects include a spray park and outdoor fitness circuit at Lumby’s Oval Park, a new playground at the Greater Vernon Recreation Centre, and an accessible washroom building at three of Greater Vernon’s beaches.

All three projects received grants through the provincial Community Recreation Program, established in 2011 by Premier Christy Clark to help communities cover the costs of recreation amenities, states a media release.

Eric Foster, MLA for Vernon-Monashee, attended three events Friday and Saturday where newly appointed Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development,
Coralee Oakes spoke on the importance of supporting recreational infrastructure projects in B.C. communities.

“These projects are wonderful additions to their communities,” Oakes said. “Through the Community Recreation program, we wanted to provide greater access to recreation amenities. These facilities are more than just opportunities for physical activities, they are also places where community life thrives – where people make friends, feel connected and build memories.”

The North Okanagan Regional District received a $400,000 Community Recreation grant for the cost of the new washroom buildings at Paddlewheel Park and Kin Beach, while the regional district covered the remaining cost of the washroom building at Kalamalka Beach. As well, the regional district was awarded a grant of $72,274 for a project that included the soon to be completed playground at Greater Vernon Recreation Centre. For the creation of the spray park and fitness circuit at Lumby’s Oval Park, the Village of Lumby received a grant $348,258 from the Community Recreation Program.

“Visitors and residents know Greater Vernon is a mecca for safe summer family fun. These amenities are a huge upgrade in quality and are welcomed enthusiastically,” said chair of the Regional Board, Patrick Nicol. “We are thankful for B.C. government’s support in helping us ensure that all visitors and residents have the necessary services to be able to enjoy their day with their family and friends.”

MLA Eric Foster applauded the creation of free recreation opportunities.

“These facilities are providing the community with no-cost recreation options that are suitable for people of all ages. It is great to see families spending time together as they enjoying the new activities available to them.”

During the announcements, Oakes presented appreciation plaques to representatives of Teddy's Devils and Martin's Angels Sunshine Coach Society, and Lumby Lions Club Society for their generous contributions of $30,000 each towards the project.

To contact the reporter for this story, email Charlotte Helston at chelston@infotelnews.ca, call (250)309-5230 or tweet @charhelston

News from © iNFOnews, 2013