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Saanich targets federal funding for Cedar Hill Rec Centre green upgrades

Electrical improvements at community hub could reduce its emissions by 60 per cent
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The District of Saanich hopes to receive a federal grant to defray the roughly $3 million cost of electrical upgrades to Cedar Hill Recreation Centre. (Photo courtesy of the District of Saanich)

Environmentally friendly electrification improvements may be on the way for Cedar Hill Recreation Centre.

This week Saanich council endorsed a federal funding application for the project to the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Program, which aims to accelerate climate priorities by improving energy efficiency in public facilities.

The Cedar Hill project would include such improvements as a furnace replacement, lighting upgrades and new glazing – reducing the facility’s greenhouse gas emissions by 60 per cent.

Should Saanich be approved for the funding, up to 80 per cent of the project costs would be covered. The estimated value of the Cedar Hill upgrades is just under $3 million.

The remaining estimated balance of approximately $600,000 would be accounted for in Saanich’s five-year financial plan, which falls within the community facility’s capital budget.

The district looks to secure federal or provincial grants wherever possible to help with major projects, Mayor Fred Haynes said.

“For projects of this scope we need the funding – but in the long run it’s the maintenance piece that’s important, like taking care of a car or your house – these are municipal-level upgrades that our facilities need,” he said.

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