The City of Prince George will be going ahead with a new, outdoor multisport court on Massey Drive.
The court would have configurations to be used for basketball, tennis, and pickleball.
The project was originally brought to City Council in September 2021.
At last night’s meeting, Council voted on whether or not to contribute $475,000 to the project.
The money for the city’s contribution would come from the Northern Capital and Planning Reserve Fund.
That fund was given to the city by the province in two contributions.
“In back-to-back years we got one-time contributions from the province and it was to recognize that, as the North, we have infrastructure that the entire region benefits from,” said Director of Finance Kris Dalio.
“So it was a bit of redistribution of wealth from the province to us. It has no restrictions on it, other than it has to be used for capital or planning, it can’t be used for operating funds, so this fits the criteria.”
Dalio estimated there was just shy of $3-million available in the fund.
Approximately $950,000 would be contributed by Jumpstart Charities.
The new courts would replace existing courts between the lacrosse box and skate park on Massey Drive.
“It’s on a major corridor so it is accessible from all points of the community through transit or pedestrian access,” said Councillor Kyle Sampson.
“I took a look, and I’m no infrastructure expert, but that facility is tired.”
“I think it’s important that we have these accessible facilities,” added Councillor Cori Ramsay.
“I think the money on this makes sense.”
Councillor Susan Scott was the lone council member to not support the project, saying she could not support it because maintenance costs were not attached to report.
The recommendation to approve the funding was carried 8-1.
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