Golfers and campers will see some major improvements at Valley Regional Park (VRP) in Rosthern next summer.
The park, which features an 18-hole, par 72 championship golf course and 79 campsites, is one of nine locations across Saskatchewan that received federal and provincial infrastructure funding. Construction is currently underway on a $3.4 million all-season, multi-purpose clubhouse that is slated to be operational by May, 2024.
The existing Valley Regional Park Golf Course clubhouse and pro shop was built about five decades ago. It needed major upgrades, according to golf club general manager Connor McGill. In an article posted on the Golf Saskatchewan website, McGill said the building was starting to show its age. The new facility will feature an expanded footprint, a full-service food service kitchen that will be able to handle tournaments, and a wider range of stock at the pro shop.
The new two-storey, energy-efficient building will replace two unsafe, outdated seasonal buildings. The existing Pro Shop will be moved and renovated to create a small gathering space and public washroom near the play park area, while the current deteriorating clubhouse will be demolished. The new facility will provide an extensive range of programs and services year-round and be accessible throughout the year.
The new facility is funded through the Community, Culture and Recreation Stream (CCRIS) and the Green Infrastructure Stream (GIS) of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The federal government contributed $1,371,500; the province put in $1,142,802; and the municipality contribution was $914,448.
Other communities receiving grants that were announced December 6 include several First Nations (White Bear, Buffalo River Dene, Pasqua, and Pheasant Rump Nakota), as well as the Town of Rockglen, and the Villages of Abbey, Lipton and Pangman. Most of the projects involved water and wastewater upgrades.
The projects represented a combined investment of more than $13.5 million from the governments of Canada and Saskatchewan. Announced by Minister Sean Fraser, Minister Van Vandal and Saskatchewan Government Relations Minister Don McMorris, these projects will enhance access to recreational activities, promote reconciliation with Indigenous communities, ensure accessible and reliable water supply, and foster inclusive and sustainable communities for years to come.