Squamish, BC - The District of Squamish was pleased to learn it was the recipient of a number of grants during a joint public announcement between MLA Joan McIntyre and MP John Weston March 17, 2009 at the Squamish Adventure Centre.

The District of Squamish was successful in its application for a “Towns for Tomorrow” grant which will provide $375,000 for the O’Siem Community Pavilion, intended to be a replacement pavilion for the downtown core. The “Towns for Tomorrow” program is jointly funded by the Province of BC and the Government of Canada.

“O’Siem” is a traditional greeting of respect in the Coast Salish culture. The design of the pavilion will evoke the image of a traditional Coast Salish Long House and will be multi-purpose with a stage for performances, which will be movable for day-to-day gatherings.

The District of Squamish intends to work on the O’Siem Community Pavilion collaboratively with the Downtown Business Improvement Area (DTBIA), Squamish First Nation and Squamish Arts Council in the siting and design of this exciting project.

“These grants demonstrate the importance of all levels of government uniting in purpose to improve our communities,” said Mayor Gardner. “These grants strengthen the foundation of our community and the benefits will be felt for years to come.”

Squamish’s success in this grant application is in part due to the assistance Dan Doyle, Vice President of Construction for VANOC. The O’siem Community Pavilion is also anticipated to be a community gathering place during the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic games.

Other funding announcements included a rebate of $4,530 under the Climate Action Revenue Incentive Program, a grant to Camp Squamish for roof repair and an upgrade to the kitchen, and playground upgrades at Stawamus Elementary and Cedar Valley schools.