FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Prince George, B.C. – Residents in Blackburn will soon have an upgraded place to play court sports, with help from annual funding provided through the Canada Community-Building Fund (CCBF).
Starting later this spring, the hard surface court at Blackburn Park will undergo exciting improvements as the existing tennis court will be resurfaced and four pickleball courts, one basketball court, and one tennis court will be installed. These upgrades are similar to those completed at Southridge Park last summer, which opened for the season earlier this month. This work is part of the parks capital program which is guided by the park and ball diamond and sports field strategies that prioritize investment in the City’s outdoor facilities.
The court upgrades are funded by the CCBF ($200,000) and the City’s general infrastructure reinvestment fund ($50,000). The washroom will also be upgraded at a cost of $500,000 from the City’s general infrastructure reinvestment fund and includes a new roof and exterior finishes, upgraded facilities, new mechanical and electrical systems, and improved drainage. The project is expected to be complete by the end of this summer and aims to enhance recreation opportunities for residents in the Blackburn neighbourhood and improve the overall quality, safety, and accessibility of the park.
The City’s annual hard surface court replacement program is just one of many projects that benefit from the grant each year. In total, the City spent $4.7 million of CCBF grant funding on infrastructure projects in 2025. Completed projects in 2025 include:
- Trail rehabilitation work along the Ferguson Lake boardwalk
- Park washroom refurbishment next to the Jumpstart Multisport Court
- Ball diamond and sport field upgrades at Freeman Park and Spruce City Stadium
- Connaught Hill Park pergola and garden enhancements
- Irrigation at Rainbow Park
- Stormwater system upgrades
- Elksentre electrical system upgrades
- 7th Avenue and Dominion Street traffic lights
- Parking lot upgrades at the RCMP lot, Fire Hall #2, and 18th Avenue lot
- Prince George Public Library downtown location skylight renewal
CCBF provides long-term and stable funding to local governments in B.C. for investment in infrastructure and capacity-building projects.
“Canada’s new government is investing to build vibrant, resilient communities across the country,” said the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada. “I am excited about the updates coming to Blackburn Park this spring, along with the many community projects that have advanced over the past year.”
“Improved local recreation and outdoor amenities will give Blackburn residents more opportunities to stay active and connected,” said Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “B.C. is committed to supporting local infrastructure – from recreation areas to essential facilities – so it continues to meet the need of growing communities.”
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Media contact:
Kendall Robertson, senior communications advisor
Mobile: 778-349-5393
Email: media@princegeorge.ca