New Westminster, BC -- A groundbreaking ceremony was held today to kick-off construction of the new Youth Centre at Moody Park. Construction of the new facility is made possible thanks to a joint investment of $2.75 million from the City of New Westminster, Province of British Columbia and Western Economic Diversification Canada.

 

“The new Youth Centre at Moody Park will meet the diverse needs of New Westminster youth and will be a tremendous asset for the Royal City,” said Mayor Wayne Wright. “By experiencing opportunities for healthy social, recreational and cultural activities and sports, young people will develop a sense of belonging and community connections that will last a lifetime.”

 

New Westminster's first facility dedicated to serving the needs of youth in the community will be connected to Century House, one of the first seniors’ leisure centres of its kind in Canada, serving older adults since 1958. The co-location of the new facility with Century House will provide unique opportunities for inter-generational programming that will foster mutual respect, trust and understanding between youth and older adults. The new 4000 square foot facility will also maximize operational efficiencies such as shared administrative functions, equipment, maintenance and staffing. The project will also see renewal of park infrastructure adjacent to the new facility, upgrades to Century House building systems and construction of new outdoor washrooms.

 

“When young people are raised with a sense of community and responsibility and given opportunities to play and interact, their futures will be even brighter,” said Burnaby-Lougheed MLA Harry Bloy. “I know that the Youth Centre at Moody Park will be an important addition to New Westminster.”

 
With a completion date of spring 2010, once opened, the new Youth Centre at Moody Park will provide opportunities for local youth ages 13 to 18 to participate in a wide range of recreational, cultural and social programs in a safe, supervised environment. Activities will be organized and delivered primarily by the City of New Westminster's Parks, Culture and Recreation Department as well as services developed in collaboration with local community partners.

 

"Our Government's investments in recreational infrastructure projects such as the new Youth Centre at Century House will help put Canadians to work, encourage greater participation in physical activity and use of recreational facilities, and ensure that communities like New Westminster have access to the essential infrastructure we need today and in the future," said James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Member of Parliament for Port Moody-Westwood-Port Coquitlam.

  

The groundbreaking ceremony also launched the Youth Centre @ Moody Park - connecting generations fundraising campaign. Co-chaired by Century House Association President Jan Greenhow and Youth Advisory Committee Member Isabel Gomez-Garcia, the campaign has set a goal to raise $200,000 to furnish and equip the new centre.

 

-30-