Stephen Fuhr, Member of Parliament for Kelowna-Lake Country (second from left) and UBC Okanagan Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Principal Deborah Buszard (third from left) stand with UBC students and staff at the opening of the Commons Field Wednesday.
Funding from Western Economic Diversification Canada creates enhanced recreation facility
Students at UBC’s Okanagan campus have a new place to stretch their legs between classes.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony officially opened the Commons Field yesterday following a series of upgrades and enhancements. Previously a simple greenspace, the Commons Field now includes lighting, a levelled and newly resurfaced natural turf field, and posts for slacklining.
The enhancements to the Commons Field were made possible by a federal investment of $225,000 from Western Economic Diversification Canada. This funding was allocated under the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program.
“Congratulations to UBC Okanagan on the renovated Commons Field,” says the Honourable Navdeep Bains, minister of innovation, science and economic development, and minister responsible for Western Economic Diversification Canada. “Investments like these play a key role in building a stronger, more vibrant community for everyone.”
“Improvements to the Commons Field will be a welcome addition for students, staff, and the wider community,” says Stephen Fuhr, Member of Parliament for Kelowna-Lake Country. “Whether you are kicking the soccer ball around or participating in other physical activities, this space will be a great place to meet with friends and take a break between classes. The Government of Canada is proud to support infrastructure that helps improve community health and well-being.”
The new Commons Field will play host to intramural sports, informal matches, and minor sports games organized by UBC Campus Recreation.
“The new Commons Field celebrates 150 years and will contribute to creating a healthy future here in the Okanagan. It is both a beautiful green space at the heart of the campus and a much needed outdoor sports and recreation facility for students, staff, and the community,” says UBC Okanagan Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Principal Deborah Buszard. “We are grateful to Western Economic Diversification for this important investment.”
Stephen Fuhr, Member of Parliament for Kelowna-Lake Country, helped open the Commons Field on Wednesday.
About UBC's Okanagan campus
UBC’s Okanagan campus is an innovative hub for research and learning in the heart of British Columbia’s stunning Okanagan Valley. Ranked among the top 20 public universities in the world, UBC is home to bold thinking and discoveries that make a difference. Established in 2005, the Okanagan campus combines a globally recognized UBC education with a tight-knit and entrepreneurial community that welcomes students and faculty from around the world. For more visit ok.ubc.ca.