MISSION – Mission will benefit from nearly $575,000 in federal and provincial LocalMotion funding to help construct approximately 3.2 km of unpaved pathway through the Fraser River Heritage Park.

“As anyone who has visited Fraser River Heritage Park knows, it is a beautiful site with breathtaking views,” said Pitt Meadows--Maple Ridge--Mission M.P. Randy Kamp. “I'm pleased that the Government of Canada and the Government of B.C. are working together with the District of Mission to improve access to the park and to encourage local residents to get out, get active and enjoy this wonderful facility.”

“Heritage Park is a jewel of the Fraser Valley and the pride of Mission,” said Maple Ridge-Mission MLA Randy Hawes, on behalf of Community Development Minister Kevin Krueger. “It is extremely heartening to see these great improvements in recreational opportunities and community links that also create jobs and stimulate our local economy.”

“I would like to thank the two governments for assisting us in achieving our vision of connecting neighbourhoods in Mission,” says Mayor of Mission James Atebe. “The pathways will go a long way in providing non-motorized commuting options which will also help us in reducing our greenhouse gas emissions and at the same time offer healthier commuting options to residents.”

This funding for the East Mission Heritage Gateway project is part of an overall $14-billion capital infrastructure program supported by the Province that will create up to 88,000 jobs and help build vital public infrastructure in every region of B.C.

Beyond this funding announcement, the Government of Canada is taking important steps to support economic growth. Canada’s Economic Action Plan, announced in Budget 2009, is a balanced stimulus plan that includes massive investments in infrastructure, tax relief and transfers. This plan will provide close to $12 billion in new infrastructure stimulus funding over two years which will address needs in communities across Canada, as well as contributing to long-term economic growth through investments in public infrastructure, such as roads, water treatment, green energy and transit.

LocalMotion is a four-year, $40-million program providing funding for projects such as trails, bike lanes and pathways. Visit www.localmotion.gov.bc.ca to learn more.