TransCanada is donating $1 million for the new Upper Skeena Recreation Centre in Hazelton, contingent on the approval of a proposed pipeline.
The funding will come from the Prince Rupert Gas Transmission Project. The 900 km proposed pipeline will transport natural gas from near Hudson's Hope to the proposed Pacific NorthWest LNG facility in Port Edward. The pipeline would pass north of Hazelton, if it gets the green light.
Their contribution to the new recreation centre will be spread over the next 10 years. It will be used for pre-capital planning, campaign management costs, construction and program support.
If the pipeline doesn't get approved, TransCanada will still contribute to the arena but with a smaller donation.
In a press release, Executive Vice-President and President for Development for TransCanada, Alex Pourbaix said their sponsorship is really an investment in the future of the community and its people.
“We strongly believe that we should have an active role in the communities in which we work and live.” He said, “Prince Rupert Gas Transmission's 10 year financial commitment clearly shows that our support is a long term investment towards the well being and success of the region.”
New Hazelton Councillor and Chair of the Heart of the Hazeltons Campaign Peter Newbery said he is extremely grateful for the grant.
“This helps indicate the project is viable and worthwhile to other funders who may now consider that is appropriate to step up to the plate. It is tremendously important. It also lets the community know there is momentum and sends a message that we are on the right track."
The total cost of the ice arena project is around $10 million and with the new donation, the community has raised more than $2.5 million. Construction on the new facility is scheduled for the fall. It will be built beside the old arena, which has been condemned. The goal is to eventually fix that building up and turn it into another recreation facility with a walking track and indoor soccer field.
The new facility will have an NHL-sized arena and will seat 500. It is slated to be completed by fall of 2015.