The rain Wednesday couldn't dampen the mood of civic politicians, as the federal government came calling with cash in hand for a number of Tri-Cities arts and infrastructure projects.

A total of $1.6 million is going toward a series of projects, including $250,000 each to upgrade Mackin Community Park in Coquitlam, Cedar Park ball field in Port Coquitlam and $166,000 to replace the roof of the Port Moody Recreation Complex.

The funding also included a re-announcement of cash to the Port Moody Arts Centre for the refurbishment of the Centennial/Appleyard House for $480,000, and centennial events in both Port Moody and Port Coquitlam.

"It's important now, more than ever, all of us work together to make sure we have these really great events and really great pieces of infrastructure in the Tri-Cities that will keep us united and healthy," said Port Moody-Westwood-Port Coquitlam MP James Moore at a media event inside Port Moody City Hall.

The centennial and arts projects are being funded through the Heritage Ministry, while the money from infrastructure projects is coming from Western Economic Diversification.

The local politicians were more than happy to take the money.

"We couldn't do these events the way we are able to without the funding from the federal government," said Port Moody Mayor Mike Clay.

Coquitlam Mayor Richard Stewart called Mackin Park the jewel of south Coquitlam, but noted the park looked tired back when he was young.

"Having this opportunity to recreate a park that will serve its residents so well into the future is a great opportunity," he said.

Other projects being funded include $25,000 to upgrade the inside space of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 133 in Port Coquitlam, $40,000 for the Festival du Bois, and $7,000 for the Evergreen Cultural Centre Season Series.

There were no timelines provided for when the infrastructure projects will be complete.