Saint John's Rockwood Park is getting more than $300,000 from the federal government for upgrades, including construction of multi-purpose trails and improvements of existing green spaces.

MP Rodney Weston made the announcement Thursday, on behalf of Keith Ashfield, the minister of national revenue, Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and the Atlantic Gateway.

"This government's Economic Action Plan is ensuring that residents of communities like Saint John benefit from stimulus funds through improved recreation and community facilities," said Weston.

"Our investment of more than $300,000 in Rockwood Park will significantly revitalize this Saint John landmark, while at the same time create jobs and help reduce the effects of the economic slowdown," he said.

The upgrades will include construction of multi-purpose trails and improvements of existing green spaces, including walkways, stone entry gates, trees and grass turf.

Ian Stead, president of the Saint John Horticultural Association, is pleased. "The park in the last 10 to 15 years was neglected basically due to funding, and now we're seeing it come back," he said.

"It's very important, and now we're seeing it come back. It's very important. The citizens of Saint John [have] said that recreation is very important."

The $302,201 through ACOA's Recreational Infrastructure Canada Fund is part of more than $3.2 million invested in the park by the City of Saint John and partner organizations.

Rockwood Park, located just five minutes from the city centre, encompasses 870 hectares.