Strait Talk Ep. 68

Dave Ritcey, Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage, along with Richmond MLA and Energy Minister Trevor Boudreau, spent September 5 touring several recently completed and ongoing projects across Richmond County. Their visit highlighted the impact of provincial investment and the dedication of local volunteers who brought these initiatives to life.

The day began in Arichat, where the ministers toured the brand-new playground, a project spearheaded by the Arichat Community Development Association (ACDA). From there, the pair visited the new splash pad and fitness centre in St. Peter’s, followed by a stop at the amphitheatre project in Louisdale. They also observed roadwork upgrades on Janvrin’s Island and in Port Royal. That evening, Ritcey and Boudreau attended the opening ceremonies of the Intermediate Provincial Baseball Tournament at the newly renovated Petit de Grat ballfield, which, like the other projects, benefited from provincial government funding.

During their stop in Arichat, Civic Journalist Jake Boudrot spoke with both ministers as well as ACDA President Rachelle Samson, who provided details about the playground’s development. Samson noted the impressive number of children and families who had already made use of the new facility since it opened in early July.

When asked about the origins of the project, Samson explained that the initiative had been years in the making, requiring significant planning, organizing, and fundraising. The ACDA, she said, worked tirelessly with volunteers and community partners to see the idea through from concept to completion.

As part of the fundraising phase, Samson outlined the contributions from individuals, local businesses, and community groups that helped make the playground possible. She also credited the financial support provided by both the provincial government and the Municipality of the County of Richmond, calling it vital to the project’s success.

By the summer of 2024, when the playground equipment finally arrived, volunteers and contractors worked together to assemble the pieces. Samson recalled how that milestone marked an exciting step forward for the community. Then, in the spring, the timeline shifted once again when the ACDA secured funding for a new rubber surface, an upgrade that provided safer, more durable conditions for children.

At present, Samson said, the association is focused on finishing touches such as installing fencing and completing landscaping around the site to create a welcoming green space. Looking ahead, she added that the ACDA has further plans to enhance the park and ensure it continues to serve local families for years to come.

Samson also clarified that while the playground sits next to École Beau-Port, it is located on a separate property and is not part of the school grounds. Instead, the facility is designed as a true community park, open and accessible to all residents.

Following the tour, Minister Boudreau reflected on the various projects he and Ritcey visited throughout the day. He praised the dedication of local volunteers, saying the results clearly showed the pride communities take in their own development. Ritcey echoed the sentiment, noting that initiatives like these demonstrate how collaboration between government and grassroots organizations can transform communities.

Both ministers emphasized that projects encouraging physical activity, social connection, and community spirit — whether for children, families, or seniors — are priorities for the provincial government. They stressed that investments in recreation and infrastructure not only create healthier communities but also strengthen bonds among residents across Richmond County.