News Release

EDMUNDSTON (GNB) – The provincial government today announced a forgivable loan of up to $7 million for the construction of the Edmundston Community Amphitheatre. Funding will come from the Strategic Infrastructure Initiative.

"Our government’s first priority is job creation," said Premier Brian Gallant. "In order to achieve that objective, we must have a diversified, future-oriented approach and the best tools to stimulate the growth of our businesses, industries, and communities. That is what our government is focusing on. The construction of this new amphitheatre is excellent news for the greater Edmundston area, for the economic growth of the region, and for our province as a whole."

The forgivable loan represents one third of the total cost of the project, estimated at $21 million. The other two thirds will be the responsibility of the federal government and the municipality.

"There are times in a city’s history when the vision and creative expression of a strong community such as Edmundston cannot help but attract ideal partners like the Government of New Brunswick to work with it in carrying out major projects," said Edmundston Mayor Cyrille Simard. "That is the case with our community amphitheatre project, which will have economic and social impacts for generations to come in our region and beyond. We salute this major partner, which is equalled only by the commitment of the hard-working volunteers who put all of their hopes and energies into this project."

The amphitheatre will be located within the Édupôle, which encompasses several major institutions, that is, the Edmundston campus of the Université de Moncton, Polyvalente Cité des Jeunes A.-M.Sormany, and the Francophone nord-ouest school district, as well as a museum, sports complex, and outdoor sports facilities.

"We are feeling excitement and euphoria today," said Paul Albert, the volunteer co-chair of the amphitheatre project. "The $7 million announced by Premier Gallant will round out the funding from the different levels of government needed to carry out this wonderful community amphitheatre project. It is a sign of trust that is the highest motivation possible for all those involved. We are redoubling our efforts in order to bring our vision of a modern, creative, vibrant, prosperous, and sound community to fruition."