MISSION, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwire) -- 03/11/13 -- Today, Randy Kamp, Member of Parliament for Pitt Meadows-Maple Ridge-Mission, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced support for upgrades to Fraser River Heritage Park under the Harper Government's Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF).

"Our Government is pleased to support communities across the country by investing in projects like the Fraser River Heritage Park," said MP Kamp. "Our investments in community infrastructure will benefit Canadian families and communities immediately, helping to support job creation, boosting economic activity, as well as creating safe and accessible facilities for years to come."

The Harper Government's investment of $250,300 will support the Mission Heritage Association to improve the Fraser River Heritage Park by upgrading its washrooms and maintenance facilities. Project activities will also include upgrades to the existing public washrooms and improvements to their electrical, sanitary, storm drainage and water supply systems.

Klaus Werner, president of the Mission Heritage Association which operates Fraser River Heritage Park, said "We're thrilled to receive the federal government's investment in our Park's infrastructure. It will directly benefit well over 100,000 visitors to our Park each year. Visitors have been asking for these improvements, and we're now able to meet them, and to enhance their experience at Mission's 'jewel'. What an impact! This is an economic infrastructure investment that is a win-win for everyone."

In Economic Action Plan 2012, the Harper Government announced further support to help communities across the country modernize their infrastructure. Our Government committed $150 million over two years for the Fund. The Fund supports projects that look to improve existing community infrastructure accessible for use by the public, such as community centres, recreational buildings, local arenas, cultural and other community facilities.

Since 2006, the Harper Government, through WD, has invested in job-creating small- and medium-sized businesses, aerospace, marine and defence industries, and supported innovative entrepreneurs in pursuing emerging markets. By continuing to promote new economic opportunities, WD is helping to create jobs, economic growth, and long-term prosperity.

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