Madawaska Valley Township is looking into federal funding that could help retrofit some buildings in town, including the Paul J Yakabuski (PJY) Community Centre.
Township staff are creating a working group to explore how best to apply for funding from the Green and Inclusive Buildings Program offered by Infrastructure Canada. According to staff, the Township can apply to the program to cover the costs of renovating several municipal buildings with cultural, community or recreational uses. Staff would apply for funding to make the PJY Centre a community hub, with plans to add the library, more community space, a fitness area, and a youth drop-in centre. Other buildings that would be brought forward for funding include a renovation of the Madawaska Valley Public Library and the Combermere Golden Years Building.
Council gave support for the working group in the last council meeting. More information and options on how the Township could proceed will be presented at the council in committee meeting on June 1st. If approved, the grant will cover up to 80% of renovation costs.