The Beechy arena. (Facebook)

By CKOM News Staff

Applications to open Monday for rink improvement grants

Dec 8, 2020 | 1:21 PM

Some hockey and curling rinks in Saskatchewan are about to get a few upgrades.

The provincial government announced Tuesday the Community Rink Affordability Grant (CRAG) program is to start taking applications next Monday.

The reinstatement of the program was one of the promises made by the Saskatchewan Party during the provincial election campaign. The program initially was launched in 2012 but discontinued in 2016.

CRAG provides $2,500 a year per indoor ice surface to help cover the costs associated with operating rinks in villages, towns and cities across the provinces. The funding can be used to pay for rink operations, minor capital upgrades or COVID-19-related costs.

The government says more than 600 rinks in nearly 400 communities will be eligible for the grants. First Nations, schools and non-profits are all encouraged to apply.

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“We are grateful to the Government of Saskatchewan for recognizing the escalating costs communities are facing in order to operate and maintain their rinks,” Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association president TJ Biemans said in a media release.

“These facilities are integral to the vitality and well-being of our communities, with this funding coming at a time when that has never been more necessary.”

Applications will be accepted until March 12. Online application forms can be found here.