Prince Rupert Port Authority Helps Modernize Indoor Racquet Centre

The Prince Rupert Racquet Centre has a bright new look thanks to an investment from the Prince Rupert Port Authority (PRPA). Through PRPA’s Community Investment Fund, the Prince Rupert Racquets Association, which operates the facility, received $21,749 for interior renovations. The upgrades include the installation of new safety-glass walls and doors at the rear of both squash courts. These new floor-to-ceiling windows replace the original solid walls, creating an unobstructed view of the action on the courts from the lower level. The total cost of the project was $43,498.
 
Established in 1980, the Prince Rupert Racquets Association helps people of all ages and abilities get involved in racquet sports. In addition to maintaining the Racquet Centre, the group offers lessons and other programs, as well as hosts an annual tournament which draws competitors from around the province. Prince Rupert Racquet Centre is the sole indoor squash facility in the city and the only one in the region with international-sized courts available year-round.
 
“The new glass transforms the space, giving it an open feeling that creates a whole new appeal,” said Richard Haley, Prince Rupert Racquets Association Director. “We regularly rent our facility for special events and now with these enhancements we can expose every visitor who sets foot in the Racquet Centre to the game of squash, hopefully encouraging more people to try it.”
 
“Our city’s indoor recreation facilities are vitally important and we are pleased to be able to help the Prince Rupert Racquets Association improve the look and overall function of their space to make it more appealing to new and existing users alike,” said Shaun Stevenson, Prince Rupert Port Authority President. “We also commend the volunteers here on their efforts to promote and support another opportunity for participation in our community—we hope that everybody takes the opportunity to check it out and try it out.”
 
The Community Investment Fund is financed by a share of the Prince Rupert Port Authority’s annual net income that has been dedicated to improving the quality of life for residents of the North Coast. By investing these funds into community projects, led mostly by dedicated local volunteers, the Port Authority has been able to share its financial success with the communities that enable it. Since 2009, more than $12.5 million dollars have been committed to the Fund, helping to make 80 local projects come to life. Each of these projects has filled an important role in supporting arts and culture, recreation, health and wellness, youth, education, the environment and other needs in the community. 

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