LEAMINGTON—The federal and provincial governments have approved their $500,000 share of a recreational project which will see the expansion of public trails in Leamington, announced MP Dave Van Kesteren and MPP Pat Hoy today.

Residents of Leamington will benefit from federal and provincial funding of $250,000 each, representing up to two-thirds of a project's total eligible cost, with recipients providing the remaining balance. 

"Our government is proud to support recreational infrastructure, and encourage residents of Ontario to achieve higher levels of participation in physical activity." said MP Van Kesteren. "Investments in these projects stimulate the economy, enhance local facilities and services and foster vibrant, dynamic communities."

“Local hockey rinks, swimming pools, parks, playgrounds, trails and other community sites will be upgraded and repaired,” said MPP Hoy.  “These facilities are vital social and athletic hubs of our communities, bringing us together as families, friends and neighbours to have fun and to stay active and healthy.”

Deputy Mayor Schmidt stated that “this announcement will build on to Leamington's trail system.  This expansion of the trail will stimulate Leamington's economy and add to Leamington's quality of life.”

The project will provide stimulus to the local economy through investments spurring construction activity related to recreational infrastructure. Improving recreational facilities and services will also encourage higher levels of participation in physical activity and community building. 

This project was part of 758 projects announced June 26 by Minister of State (Science and Technology) Gary Goodyear, on behalf of the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry, and Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Leona Dombrowsky, on behalf of George Smitherman, Ontario Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, worth a total joint federal and provincial investment of more than $380 million.