SPECIAL NEEDS TRANSPORTATION VEHICLE FOR GRAVELBOURG

Released on July 20, 2002

Gravelbourg has a new vehicle for its special needs transportation

service. Today, Premier Lorne Calvert presented a cheque for $55,000 from

the Centenary Fund, toward the cost of the $78,000 vehicle.



"This new vehicle will improve transportation services for Gravelbourg

residents with disabilities," Calvert said. "Transportation is key to a

person's ability to access services, work, socialize and live independently

within the community. The province is pleased to help provide a safe and

reliable vehicle for this purpose."



"The people of Gravelbourg are excited and proud of our new transit bus,"

Mayor Henri Lepage said. "It will increase the service and comfort for

both passengers and drivers. We would like to thank the Province of

Saskatchewan, the Kinsmen foundation and our community partners for their

contribution to make this necessity a reality."



The Centenary Fund was set up to leave a legacy of Saskatchewan's

Centennial for future generations. Leading up to the centennial

celebrations in 2005, the government is funding projects that are of

provincial or regional interest and develop municipal infrastructure.



Under the Centenary Fund Saskatchewan communities will receive more than

$2.3 million, over the next three years, toward the replacement of special

needs transportation vehicles.



The province will also provide $2.65 million in 2002/03 for the Transit for

the Disabled Program as part of an annual base that supports both

operational and capital costs of providing this service in 77 communities.



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For more information, contact:



Anna Arneson

Government Relations and Aboriginal Affairs

Regina

Phone: (306) 787-8008