The Ontario government has announced investments of more than $26 million to support the construction of a series of recreation projects in the North.

On July 18, it announced funding of more than $12.6 million toward the construction of the new Valley East Twin Pad Multipurpose Sports Complex in the City of Greater Sudbury, along with upgrades to other sports and recreation facilities across northeastern Ontario.

The government’s $10-million investment in the Valley East Twin Pad Multipurpose Sports Complex in Greater Sudbury will help create a state-of-the-art facility featuring two NHL-sized accessible rinks, 18 change rooms, a multipurpose gymnasium, support spaces, daycare, administrative offices, a heated viewing area, café and concession area and a public concourse.

In addition, the province is investing:

• $1,000,000 to replace the aging refrigeration system at the Espanola Arena with a state-of-the-art CO₂ system,
• $614,600 to support critical repairs of the Kashechewan Arena, including roof replacement, bathroom renovations and lighting and safety upgrades,
• $585,250 for renovations at the Municipality of Markstay-Warren’s Multiplex to support expanded programming, and
• $484,100 to replace the roof at Don Shepherdson Memorial Arena in the City of Temiskaming Shores.

“At a time when Ontario families are facing rising costs due to tariffs, our government is proud to support organizations focused on delivering better services for people while breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for children and young people,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport. “With investments in infrastructure like this, we are protecting Ontario jobs, strengthening our communities and building a more resilient and self-reliant economy.”

In a separate announcement on July 28, the government pledged more than $13.7 million to support the development of a new multi-purpose complex in Anishinabe of Wauzhushk Onigum Nation, along with upgrades to other sport and recreation facilities across northwestern Ontario.

The government’s investment of over $9 million in Wauzhushk Onigum Nation will support the development of a modern, inclusive multi-purpose complex and address the high demand for sport and recreation infrastructure in the region. The 60,000-square-foot facility will include a regulation-size ice surface, running track, a fitness space, community spaces and an Elder’s lounge. The facility will serve as a vital gathering space and hub that will be used year-round and accommodate tens of thousands of visitors annually.

The remainder of the funding will be divided among five other projects:

• $743,400 for Shoal Lake #40 First Nation to upgrade its existing arena with a new 1,305-square-foot fitness space, 
• $998,000 for the Reverend Tommy Beardy Memorial Wee Che He Wayo-Gamik Family Treatment Centre to restore its arena,
• $1,000,000 for Kasabonika Lake First Nation to upgrade and repair their arena, including preparations for a future ice plant,
• $900,000 for Deer Lake First Nation to enhance the local arena by installing an ice plant, constructing dressing rooms and upgrading rink boards and glass, and
• $935,550 for the Township of Ignace to rehabilitate the Ignace Recreation Centre, including roof repairs, structural enhancements and upgrades to mechanical and electrical systems.

“At a time when Ontario families are facing rising costs due to tariffs, our government is proud to support organizations focused on delivering better services for people while breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for children and young people,” said Sport Minister Neil Lumsden. “With investments in infrastructure like this, we are protecting Ontario jobs, strengthening our communities and building a more resilient and self-reliant economy.”

All of the projects are being funded under the $200-million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund, a province-wide initiative to revitalize local facilities, grow the economy and promote active, healthy living across Ontario.