VICTORIA – The Hon. Gary Lunn, Minister of State for Sport and MP for Saanich-Gulf Islands, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, today announced federal funding to renovate Centennial Stadium and provide other field upgrades at the University of Victoria. Funding for this investment is being provided under the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program, a major job creating investment from Canada's Economic Action Plan.

“This project will further cement UVic's well earned reputation as a leader in physical education and post-secondary sports,” said Minister Lunn. “This critical investment will help put Canadians to work, encourage greater participation in physical activity and use of recreational facilities, and ensure that communities across Canada have access to the essential infrastructure we need today and in the future.”

The Government of Canada is funding one third of the $1 million project. The funding will be used to renovate Centennial Stadium, including removal and replacement of all stadium seating, and the purchase of a new score board and sound system. In addition, a rehabilitation of the adjoining field will create a new multi-purpose sports field to address current capacity issues.

“The University of Victoria is very grateful for this investment from Canada's Economic Action Plan,” says UVic President David Turpin. “Not only will our athletes and their supporters benefit from better facilities, the many community groups that use Centennial Stadium for their athletic competitions and events will enjoy the improved venue as well.”

The Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program 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.

RInC is part of Canada's Economic Action Plan, the Government of Canada's multi-faceted stimulus plan that will ensure a quick recovery from the current economic downturn. Western Economic Diversification Canada is delivering the initiative in the four western provinces.

For information on Canada's Economic Action Plan, please visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.