Ontario to spend $200M to renovate, build sport and recreation facilities
The Ontario government intends to invest up to $200 million over three years to renovate and build new sport and recreation facilities across the province.
The new Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund was announced as part of the province’s 2024 budget released last month.
“Ontario’s new Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund will transform and expand recreational facilities across the province, creating jobs and fostering healthier and more active lifestyles for families,” said Premier Doug Ford. “As our population grows, our government is building the necessary infrastructure so families can live, work, play and thrive right in their local communities."
The province will deliver the funding through two streams. One will be available for repairing and upgrading existing sport and recreation facilities into more accessible, state-of-the-art facilities that better suit the community’s needs. The other will support the construction of new facilities, including replacing existing facilities that have reached the end of their lifespan and are beyond repair.
“Our government is listening to Ontarians and we want to ensure that new and upgraded facilities remain the heart of communities across this province for decades to come,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “Not only will families benefit from better access to places to play, modern sport and recreation facilities will allow communities to host provincial, national and international events and competitions, attracting more visitors and good-paying jobs.”
Applications will be open to municipalities, Indigenous communities, and non-profit organizations.