By Lawrence Powell
The Spectator
NovaNewsNow.com
An infusion of $90,000 in provincial and federal funding for capital projects at Historic Gardens in Annapolis Royal this morning will help The Gardens board spruce up infrastructure and embark on new projects and improvements.
The province, through its Community Jobs and Facilities Improvement Program, is giving Historic Gardens $50,000. Ottawa, as part of Economic Action Plan 2012 Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund, is giving the Annapolis Royal attraction $40,000.
The money supports a variety of work including re-shingling the roof, upgrading the flooring and walls of the main garden house, stabilizing the maintenance barn, upgrading the winter farmers’ market area and the Interpretive Centre, installing an irrigation system, and making improvements to the facility’s grounds.
“Facilities like the Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens make life better for families as they create good jobs and strengthen the economy of rural Nova Scotia communities,” said Pam Birdsall, MLA for Lunenburg, on behalf of Communities, Culture and Heritage Minister Leonard Preyra. “The province is pleased to support this project so the gardens continue to preserve and share the story of our agricultural heritage and support tourism in southwest Nova Scotia.”
“Our Government is committed to supporting communities across Canada,” said West Nova MP Kerr on behalf of ACOA Minister Bernard Valcourt. “This investment creates a sustainable future for this community treasure, showcasing gardening methods, designs and materials from more than four hundred years of local history. This type of investment enhances the quality of life in our communities, while generating economic activity and jobs.”
The farmer’s market draws more than 175 customers every Saturday during the winter months and supports between 10 and 20 local vendors.
“We are grateful for the federal and provincial government support for this project,” said Keith Crysler, chair of the Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens Society. “The work taking place here at The Gardens will help create a more enjoyable and memorable experience for all the more than 16,000 visitors we welcome each year and ensures that they can continue to enjoy our magnificent gardens for years to come.”
