(File photo/northeastNOW)

By Ben Tompkins

Governments Grants

Provincial and federal governments invest over $300k in Bourgault Curling Centre

Oct 13, 2022 | 5:21 PM

The Bourgault Curling Centre in Melfort has received a substantial government grant, which will go towards starting and completing phase one of their revitalization project.

Over $300,000 has been invested by the provincial and federal governments, as part of their infrastructure projects to build more resilient, greener communities.

Kerrie DeGooijer, revitalization project chair, told northeastNOW the money will greatly speed up the process.

“It meant the difference between getting the project started right now versus waiting until we fundraise enough. It was huge.”

According to her, the project has already begun.

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“We’ve already started replacing key components of our ice plant and then the roof will get done. The contract has been signed, so probably in January is when the contractors will get started on that.”

The ice plant will be replaced with a new higher energy-efficient ice plant, which includes a new ammonia chiller, compressor, motor, and related piping. Retrofitting of the 5,000 sq ft flat roof of the facility will also be completed.

A total of $113,277 has also been funded, courtesy of the curling centre itself. Along with the over $300,000 funded by the government, it adds up to a final total of $424,736.

There had been a large push by the club this year to fundraise as much as it could, which included its 50th-anniversary celebration.

DeGooijer explained this money gave them considerable flexibility and made sure they had the ice installed in time for the fast-approaching curling season.

“The one we had to get done, no matter what. It’s the difference between all the money coming from our savings, versus 73% of it getting funded by the federal and provincial governments. As far as the roof, as well, I don’t know when we would have started that.”

This grant was applied for, back in January, so it was a long wait for the club, however, it was definitely worth it.

DeGooijer mentioned it also may actually make the sport a little cheaper for those in the area.

“We’re going to be getting some insulation put on that roof, which will help our help out with our heating costs and things like that, so in terms of affordability of the sport, we should hopefully keep it affordable for people as well.”

More than $44.6 million in joint funding for 28 infrastructure projects across Saskatchewan, were announced, including this one.

“All Canadian families deserve to have access to modern, reliable services that improve their quality of life – and that is exactly what we are delivering,” said Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities, in a press release sent to northeastNOW.

“Local infrastructure initiatives will help maintain a healthy environment, improve the transportation network, and provide more cultural and recreation opportunities. Together, we will build a stronger Saskatchewan that is home to a strong economy, strong communities, and strong families,” added Saskatchewan’s Government Relations Minister Don McMorris.

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Ben.Tompkins@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter @BenTompkins_8