SUSSEX - The Fundy Civic Centre received a big cheque and a new name following an announcement made Tuesday morning.
The local indoor pool complex will be known now as the PotashCorp Civic Centre after PotashCorp contributed one million dollars to boost the fundraising campaign's budget in its quest for $3 million for the new facility.
David Medders, chair of Fundy Civic Centre Inc., was more than enthusiastic on Tuesday morning with the generous donation from PotashCorp.
"For a leading corporation to step forward and say two things, we see that vision and we're here to make it happen, is a great salute," he said.
Medders was grateful in the company's ability to make a difference in the area.
"Here's a corporation that believes in the health and well being of the community," he said.
"We'll go full steam ahead," he said. "We hope by 2010 people will be swimming in the pool."
Mayor Ralph Carr was surprised with the number of zeros that turned up on the cheque.
"I knew something was coming, but I didn't think it was that large," he said. "I'm very, very pleased."
Carr looks forward to the potential in employment opportunities after the facility is built.
"It's very important to our community in that it will be an economic generator. Not only will it create a number of jobs for young people, it will create permanent and part-time jobs for people," said Carr. "It really makes our community more viable."
Garth Moore, PotashCorp president, recognized the need for recreation development in the community and has made a difference with the decision to contribute.
PotashCorp operates a mine outside of Sussex in Penobsquis. The Saskatchewan-based mining company is in the process of sinking two more mine shafts next to their current facility.
"The hard working men and women of Sussex and Kings County and their families need a safe, new recreational facility to swim, to exercise with up-to-date fitness equipment and to socialize with other members of the community," he said during the press conference at the All Seasons Inn and Restaurant.
"This million dollar contribution is our way of giving back to our community, and enhancing the quality of life for the families of our employees, our business partners, our friends and our neighbours."
The new civic centre will be a welcome addition to the town making it more appealing to new businesses while local businesses will be able to capitalize on the new facility as well.
The PotashCorp Civic Centre will encourage health and wellness through its exercise opportunities and recreation and lifestyle education programs.
The new facility will include an indoor aquatic facility ($3 million), a walking and jogging track ($1 million), a fitness centre ($1 million) and the main lobby and administration space ($1 million) for a total of $6 million.
The federal government will kick in $1.33 million, the provincial government will pay $1.33 million, there will be $300 thousand from a provincial grant. The remaining $3 million comes from the major fund raising campaign.