The Balfour Recreation Commission will receive $290,180 from Columbia Basin Trust to build a multi-use gazebo as part of a $1.3 million grant.
The Community Outdoor Revitalization Grants announced Tuesday will fund 10 projects in the West Kootenay.
“Residents have told us how important outdoor gathering places are in their communities — to host events, share food, be physically active and connect with others,” said Will Nixon, senior manager of delivery of benefits at Columbia Basin Trust, in a statement.
“As we look forward to safely coming together again, the Trust is supporting community efforts to create spaces that residents and visitors can enjoy.”
Balfour’s gazebo will include a barbecue area, new washrooms, equipment storage and improvements to green space.
Other projects include:
• The Taghum Community Society will receive $114,729 to improve the grounds around the Taghum Hall.
“The hall has a legacy of community-building and this exciting project will make it an even more welcoming place for the whole community to enjoy,” said society chair Jude Stralak.
• The City of Nelson will use $75,000 to add paved accessible walkways, picnic tables, benches and a shade shelter at Art Gibbon Park.
• Argenta Community Association will spend $41,891 to create a pavilion and outdoor kitchen at the community hall.
• Ymir Community Association will be granted $24,300 to build a new gazebo and upgrade washrooms at Riverside Community Park.
“The Ymir Riverside Day Use Area will offer a place for families to gather, eat, put on skates, take a break from basketball and biking, and for seniors to rest in between games of pickle ball or tennis,” said the association’s Isabelle Herzig.