James Woodall (centre), Columbia Basin Trust Community Liaison, Elk Valley Field House representatives Aysha Haines (left) and Antony McElwee
The Elk Valley Field House Society is a lot closer to its funding goal, thanks to a generous $500,000 contribution from Columbia Basin Trust.
The Trust announced the funding last week as the society moves toward breaking ground on the facility, to be built near the Fernie Aquatic Centre.
“This is an exciting step forward for the community of Fernie as it moves closer to breaking ground on a new indoor, multi-use recreational and gathering space,” said Katie Kendall, Senior Manager, Delivery of Benefits, Columbia Basin Trust. “The field house will give residents of all ages more opportunities to be active, connect with one another and come together year-round. Projects like this show what’s possible when communities and partners work together to invest in shared spaces that support health, well-being and belonging.”
The society has been actively fundraising towards its goal of $3 million. The Columbia Basin Trust funding brings the amount raised to more than $2 million. Elk Valley Resources donated $1 million to the project last year. The project has also received $525,000 in Resort Municipalities Initiatives funding, supported by the City of Fernie. Tourism Fernie has contributed $40,000. At the October 28 city council meeting, Fernie Youth Soccer Association announced it will be donating $10,000.
“We want to thank Columbia Basin Trust for this generous contribution, which moves us a lot closer to our goal,” said Aysha Haines, Field House Society spokesperson. “We hope to break ground on this much-needed facility later this year.”
Late last year the Society reached lease and operating agreements with the City of Fernie.
The 60-year lease will allow the Field House Society, comprised of volunteers from a multitude of local groups and organizations, to build and operate an accessible space for physical activity, social interaction, and community events. The operating agreement stipulates the Field House will primarily be used for recreational purposes and for events and gatherings and that the society shall be responsible for the operation, cleanliness, maintenance and repair of the Field House.
“By creating a sustainable, community-focused facility, we aim to foster an environment where people of all ages and backgrounds can connect, engage, and thrive,” said Haines.
City council also directed staff to expedite the building permit for the facility.
“Discussions with other possible funders throughout the area have kicked into high gear,” said Haines. “We’ve accomplished a lot already, but it will take the community to push this project over the top.”
For more information check out the website: https://www.fernierec.com/
Fernie Chamber of Commerce photo
