Pikwàkanagàn – An Ontario Trillium Foundation grant has helped the Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn construct a new outdoor rink for the community.
On April 24, Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke MPP John Yakabuski visited the community and presented a certificate of recognition to Chief Kirby Whiteduck.
The Ontario Trillium Foundation approved the funding proposal in the amount of $100,000 for the construction of the new outdoor rink in July 2014.
Chief Whiteduck said the Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn First Nation Health Service Department contributed $30,000 towards the project for site development. The remainder of the funding contribution was supported and provided by the chief and council.
The total cost of construction was $250,000.
Whiteduck said the outdoor rink addresses a community vision that was identified in the Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn Community Comprehensive Plan, which states that there will be an increase in recreational opportunities, such as a single purpose recreational building, an outdoor rink and outside basketball courts.
“It builds a stronger community,” Chief Whiteduck explained. “It brings people out to do activities. Not just in the winter time but in the summer as well.”
He added that the location and accessibility of sport and leisure facilities are important considerations in community planning. Sport and leisure brings the community together, and facilities within Pikwàkanagàn would reduce the need to travel to outside communities.
Get your April 29, 2015 edition of The Valley Gazette to read the full story.