Nova Scotia is investing in the Special Olympics Canada 2018 Summer Games by contributing $1 million to one of the Summer Games’ main venues at St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish.
The funding will be used for seating improvements at the university’s Oland Centre, providing greater accessibility for athletes and their families. The existing bleachers at the facility were built in the 1960s. They will be replaced by a new high-standard seating area for 1,500 people.
“We want to create the best national games experience ever for the athletes and their families when they arrive in Antigonish,” said Randy Delorey, Finance and Treasury Board Minister, in a press release. “Through this investment, we are helping to provide the most modern facilities that will also have a long-lasting impact on the community and the university when it comes to hosting provincial and national events.”
“This $1 million investment by the province will help us prepare our campus facilities for hosting this national event that will draw thousands of Olympians and spectators from across Canada to our campus and the surrounding community,” added Kent MacDonald, president of St. Francis Xavier University. “This funding will also help in upgrading our facilities in support of our varsity and recreational athletic programs and give us the ability to compete to host more national sporting events.”
Organizers estimate the economic impact on the area of the Special Olympics Canada 2018 Summer Games and its 4,000 participants will top $5 million.
