Residents of the Regional District of Bulkley Nechako (RDBN) celebrated the reopening of the Francois Lake Hall on Sunday.

The hall is a community facility that has served families and children in the area for 96 years. This significant landmark recently underwent a $200,000 renovation, with $119,000 being provided through the federal gas tax fund.

鈥淥ur government is proud to invest in infrastructure projects that enable communities across British Columbia to continue to grow and prosper,鈥� said the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, and Regional Minister for British Columbia.

鈥淭hanks to Canada鈥檚 gas tax fund, the upgrades to the Francois Lake Hall will benefit residents of Bulkley Nechako for many years to come.鈥�

The renovation involved the installation of new energy efficient exterior doors and windows; the replacement of wood heat with an energy efficient furnace; increased insulation in the walls, ceiling and crawlspace; as well as the installation of energy efficient lighting. These much needed upgrades will reduce the hall鈥檚 energy consumption and operating costs. This energy efficient upgrade is part of a larger renovation project, which will ensure continued enjoyment of the hall for generations to come.

鈥淐ommunity halls are often the hub of smaller communities, a place where families can gather, stay connected and enjoy celebrations and events,鈥� said Nechako Lakes MLA John Rustad. 鈥淚t鈥檚 gratifying to see gas tax dollars at work, helping communities maintain and upgrade important infrastructure and amenities.鈥�

鈥淭he Regional District of Bulkley Nechako congratulates the Francois Tchesinkut Recreation Commission for completing a number of energy efficient upgrades to the Francois Lake Hall.

We also recognize the volunteer committee members who have committed so much time and effort to complete this project.

We look forward to the reopening of the hall for the benefit of area residents,鈥� said RDBN Electoral Area E, Francois Ootsa Lake rural director, Eileen Benedict.

Canada鈥檚 gas tax fund is a tripartite agreement between Canada, British Columbia and the Union of B.C. Municipalities (UBCM) that delivers infrastructure funding to local governments primarily for capital projects that lead to cleaner air, cleaner water or reduced greenhouse gas emissions. UBCM administers the gas tax fund in B.C. in collaboration with Canada and British Columbia.

On Oct. 4, 2011 the Government of Canada tabled legislation to make the fund a permanent annual investment of $2 billion.

For further information on the Government of Canada鈥檚 infrastructure investments in British Columbia, visit www.infrastructure.gc.ca.