YARMOUTH, N.S. — The Mariners Centre Expansion Committee has submitted a detailed proposal seeking federal and provincial money for an expansion at Mariners Centre. The proposal was developed in recent weeks with help from EXP Architects of Halifax.
As stated in an open letter from the committee this spring, a media release issued this week states the proposal makes a strong case for adding three key components: an aquatics centre, indoor/outdoor tracks, and a multi-purpose field house.
While the proposal focuses on the fact that Yarmouth County has aging recreation infrastructure that needs replacing, it also puts forward a vision for a facility that addresses specific challenges faced in the region.
made certain to stress how important this expansion is and how it can help with key issues residents of Yarmouth County face today,” said steering committee Chair, Leland Anthony. “The expansion can help with population growth and attracting young families and professionals such as doctors to the area. We also stressed how an expansion at Mariners Centre could better serve our aging population and give us all a wonderful place to gather and be more active as a community.”
Argyle Warden and committee co-chair Danny Muise agreed with Anthony’s views on the proposal, but also added there are no guarantees.
“We are all happy with the proposal and believe it provides a strong vision for a facility we can all be proud of,” said Muise. “But as we’ve stated from the start, there are no guarantees on receiving funding or any specific amount of money if the proposal is approved. Also, we may receive less than hoped which could lead to cutting back on some components.”
Town of Yarmouth Mayor Pam Mood expressed excitement about the work done to this point. However, like Muise, also pointed out that nothing is guaranteed and patience is required as the proposal makes its way through the evaluation process.
“The Steering committee worked hard over recent weeks to build a strong case for expansion and we’re confident we have done just that." said Mood. “It’s an exciting proposal which captures a shared vision of all three municipalities. It’s out of our hands at this point but we hope both the province and federal government understand our needs and see value in this project. We also have no timetable on receiving an answer, so at this time we need to wait and be patient.”
The Mariners Centre opened in 2001.
An expansion of the facility is one that has been looked at in recent years. A consultants report and previous community discussions had also looked at the possibility and feasability of including a curling centre at the facility to replace the current aging curling rink in the town but that isn't part of this current application.
