From the left: Following the announcement of free access to the walking track at the Sports Dome in Embrun, Warden of the United Counties of Prescott-Russell and Mayor of the Township of Russell Pierre Leroux, Hawkesbury Mayor Robert Lefebvre, Casselman Mayor Geneviève Lajoie, Director of Parks and Recreation for the Township of Russell Celine Guitard, Russell Township Recreation Co-ordinator Sonia Clement are pictured on the track. Thompson Goddard Photo

EMBRUN – As of April 9, 2024, there were no fees for using the walking and running track at Russell Township’s Sports Dome in Embrun.

The announcement was made by United Counties of Prescott-Russell (UCPR) Warden and Township of Russell (TOR) Mayor Pierre Leroux during a morning press conference at the Sports Dome on April 9. A press release provided by the Township of Russell on the same day mentioned this was “the first approved initiative through the new Regional Community Investment Fund (RCIF).”

The RCIF will provide “$30,000 for the remaining 9 months of 2024” and looking ahead to the future, the release said, “future requests of $40,000 will be made in 2025 and 2026, should the Funding Program still be in place.”

“I am filled with a profound sense of pride” commented Leroux, continuing this embodies the spirit of working together for the benefit of all. Leroux who will be stepping down as UCPR Warden and TOR Mayor shortly mentioned he will take memories of his time with municipality, but this is a special one.

The Sports Dome in Embrun opened in January 2018 and continues to be well utilized by the community. Russell Township Recreation Co-ordinator Sonia Clement explained the Sports Dome provides a controlled environment for people to enjoy the walking/running track, a fitness centre as well as a multi-sport area and sports field.

“It’s the place for anybody that want to stay healthy and active” commented Clement following the announcement. This sentiment was echoed in the press release which stated how “This is more than just an initiative; it’s a commitment to the ongoing health and vitality of the community.”

It was announced in the release that information on the changes will be sent to current membership holders by email or they are able to call the Sports Dome at 613-443-9272 for more information. For those who are new to the utilization of the resources at the Sports Dome, they are requested to stop by the registration desk on their first visit to receive information on the rules and policies. More information can be found at www.russell.ca/sportsdome.