Government funding will support 19 projects in southwestern New Brunswick, including arena upgrades in Blacks Harbour and an expansion at the Welsford Fire Department.

Saint John-Rothesay MP Wayne Long and Fundy-The Isles-Saint John West MLA Andrea Anderson-Mason announced $2.8 million in funding in Blacks Harbour on Tuesday morning.

Slightly more than $94,000 will allow the Nauwigewauk Community Club to upgrade its playground, add signage to an existing trail, edible vegetation, and a kilometre-long winter skating trail.

The Town of St. George will use more than $109,000 in funding to improve the pickleball court.

Anderson-Mason participated for Local Government and Local Governance Reform Minister Daniel Allain.

“Projects like these really make a difference in people’s lives,” said Anderson-Mason. “New Brunswickers are benefiting from our partnership with the federal government through improved infrastructure, job creation and tourism initiatives. We are helping people live in their home regions by providing the services they need to remain active.”

Long spoke on behalf of federal Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities Minister Dominic LeBlanc.

“The investments we are making today will help southwestern New Brunswickers stay healthy and connected in their communities while taking advantage of all that our beautiful region has to offer,” said Saint John-Rothesay MP Wayne Long. “Working with our provincial partners, we are strengthening our local economy and making our region even more attractive to residents, tourists and business owners alike.”

All projects must be completed by March 31, 2023.