Urban farm expands and benefits from accessibility upgrades to help bring people back to public spaces safely

Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

Government of Canada fueling community revitalization and creating the conditions for local economies to thrive

August 5, 2022 · Halifax, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Canadian cities and towns flourish when they have community public spaces to promote social interaction and physical activity and provide access to recreational programs and facilities. These amenities are integral to the overall well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Our economic recovery is closely linked to the vitality of our local communities and their shared spaces.

Today, the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Member of Parliament for Halifax West, announced an investment of $31,266 through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) for Metroworks Employment Association, a not-for-profit organization which operates Common Roots Urban Farm. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA.

This funding will support upgrades to two Common Roots Urban Farm locations - BiHi Park and Woodside. Both locations will replace current garden sheds with new, larger, and more accessible sheds. This will provide more space for equipment storage, including for farm users' personal tools if desired. BiHi Park farm will also re-landscape its walkways and add signs to make plots more wheelchair accessible.

The CCRF was launched in June 2021. The fund provides $500 million over two years to Canada's regional development agencies (RDAs) to invest in shared and inclusive public spaces. The Government of Canada is committed to investing in shared spaces to make them safer, greener and more accessible. This will help stimulate local economies, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for Canadians.

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