Families in the Town of Amos to enjoy an improved bike path for a better quality of life and an easier time getting around

Government of Canada awards over $223,000 to support this community project

AMOS, QC, Sept. 9, 2017 /CNW Telbec/ - Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED)

Families in Amos will enjoy an improved bike path thanks to $223,708 in funding from the Government of Canada.

The investment was announced today by David Lametti, Member of Parliament for LaSalle–Émard–Verdun and Parliamentary Secretary to the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions.

The financial contribution has helped Vélo MRC Abitibi to improve cycling conditions on the bike path. Preparatory, granular surfacing and paving work, as well as safety upgrades, were carried out along a stretch of the bike path over five kilometres long. The enhancement of this existing bike path will allow a greater number of family members to be physically active together and make the most of this outdoor space.

The investment was granted through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP150), a $300 million fund that was established to celebrate Canada's 150th anniversary through investments in community spaces that bring Canadians together. Up to $63.5M of this amount will be invested in Quebec.

Quotes
"This investment is part of a community construction project celebrating Canada's 150th anniversary. There is no better way to mark this milestone than to celebrate the places that bring us together—the places that allow us to stay fit, unwind and connect with our friends and neighbours. That is how we establish the bonds of common understanding and friendship in a country where people come from every corner of the world. The values of openness, diversity and inclusion that define all Canadians are forged in our community spaces."

The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for CED

"I am very proud that Canada Economic Development is helping to upgrade a portion of the Vélo MRC Abitibi bike path. This is key infrastructure that allows families in the area to practise their favourite sport, while making it easier for them to get around. It is also great for tourism in Abitibi-Témiscamingue."

David Lametti, Member of Parliament for LaSalle‒Émard‒Verdun and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development

"This community infrastructure project sponsored by Vélo MRC Abitibi has been in the works for over 20 years. It fits in perfectly with the municipal council's objective to make Amos a city that promotes physical activity."

Sébastien D'Astous, Mayor of Amos

"This bike path project has been a citizen-led initiative since its very beginnings. Through partnerships established by Vélo MRC Abitibi over the years with the Town of Amos and, today, with the Government of Canada, we are now seeing its completion. This high-quality infrastructure will support residents who want to be active and adopt a healthy lifestyle."

Jean-Charles Perron, President of Vélo MRC d'Abitibi

Quick facts

• Since its creation in 2015, CIP150 has invested nearly $61M in more than 470 projects contributing to the vitality of Quebec's communities.
• CED is one of the six regional development agencies under the responsibility of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development.

Related link
CED — Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program

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SOURCE Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions

Karl W. Sasseville, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, Tel.: [phone]; Media Relations, Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, Tel.: [phone], Email: [email protected]