The Honourable Joe McGuire, Minister for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA); the Honourable Gail Shea, on behalf of the Honourable Elmer MacFadyen, Minister of Community and Cultural Affairs; and Alan Rennie, chair of the Jacques Cartier Arena Committee, will all be on hand to participate in an official ceremony. This event will recognize the various committees and community members and thank them for their dedication in ensuring the much-needed upgrades to the facility became a reality.

“Alberton is home to an ambitious and hard-working group of residents, and these arena renovations were made possible in large part thanks to their efforts. This is a fine example of how western Prince Edward Island has earned a reputation as a place where neighbours come together to create first-class communities. By working together, we are building a vibrant future for West Prince,” said the Honourable Joe McGuire, Minister of ACOA. “I am pleased the Government of Canada was a key partner in the Jacques Cartier Arena renovations. This project complements the revitalization initiatives recently completed in the downtown core and, more importantly, these latest developments focus on the long-term growth for Alberton.”

“Arenas and recreational facilities play a critical role in the growth and prosperity of Island communities, and it is with great pleasure that the province has been able to partner in the enhancement of the Jacques Cartier Arena in Alberton,” said the Honourable Gail Shea. “The people of Alberton and surrounding areas treasure this facility and it is certainly well used. It is my sincere hope that this upgraded facility will serve the needs of area residents for many years to come.”

The renovation project consisted of a new heating system, insulation and flue, lighting over the ice surface, an improved front entrance, new doors, additional dressing rooms, a storage area and replacement of the roof.

“We are proud of the way the citizens in our community rally together to initiate and accomplish projects,” said Alan Rennie, Chair of the Jacques Cartier Arena Committee. “On behalf of the Jacques Cartier Arena, I would like to thank the various committees involved in this project and the local contributors, as well as the federal and provincial governments, for their financial assistance.”

Under the Canada-Prince Edward Island Infrastructure Program, the project received $175,000 from the Government of Canada and $175,000 from the Province of Prince Edward Island. The Town of Alberton contributed $175,000 for the renovations through its own financing plan and community campaign.

The Canada-Prince Edward Island Infrastructure Program provides up to two-thirds of the eligible costs of community infrastructure projects. Communities provide the remaining one-third of project costs, making the program a unique partnership among all three levels of government. The Canada-Prince Edward Island Infrastructure Program is administered by ACOA and the PEI Department of Community and Cultural Affairs.