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# Final phase of the F.H. Collins track and field underway

The new running track at F.H. Collins will be closed starting June 23, 2020 while the surface is rubberized. This is the final phase of the F.H. Collins track and field project. Work is expected to be complete so that the track is ready for the 2020–21 school year.

Closing the track at this time of year will result in the shortest possible closure. The rubber requires that overnight temperatures stay above 10 degrees Celsius in order for the track to set. The public is asked to stay away from the track during this time to allow for proper installation.

Athletics Yukon plans to register the new track to World Athletics standards so that the track may be used for national track and field meets in the future. The facility will be used to host the Yukon elementary and high school track and field championships. In addition to the regulation running track, the new track and field complex will also have steeple chase, long jump, high jump and shotput facilities.

The budget for this project is $8.2 million. The Government of Canada contributed over $6 million through the Small Communities Fund from its Investing in Canada infrastructure plan. The Government of Yukon has contributed $2 million.

> Physical activity is key to a healthy, active lifestyle. We’re so excited to see the final phase of the F.H. Collins track underway. This will bring world-class running facilities to our community for the first time and I look forward to athletes of all ages and abilities using it.

> This modernized facility will expand physical education and sport opportunities and enhance the Riverdale Educational Reserve. It will also provide a great venue for community recreation that supports the health and wellness of students, families and all Yukoners.

> The athletics facility, with its new rubberized track, is unique in Whitehorse and in Yukon. I am proud to know that our athletes and residents can train and keep fit and healthy at this excellent facility. The Government of Canada recognizes that strategic investments in public infrastructure, including sports and recreation projects such as this, will ensure that our communities remain among the best places to live, work, and raise a family.

Media contact

Matthew Cameron
Cabinet Communications
867-393-7136
matthew.cameron@gov.yk.ca

Kara Johancsik
Communications, Community Services
867-332-1237
kara.johancsik@gov.yk.ca

News release #:
20-178