Ontario to invest $11.1M to upgrade Niagara region recreation infrastructure

The Ontario government is investing over $11.1 million to upgrade the Chippawa Willoughby Memorial Arena and support other improvements to sport and recreation facilities in the Niagara region.

The projects are part of the $200 million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF) — a provincewide initiative to revitalize local facilities, grow the economy and promote active, healthy living across Ontario.

The government’s $10 million investment to upgrade the 52-year-old Chippawa Willoughby Memorial Arena will include the construction of a new NHL-sized ice pad, seven changerooms, more spectator seating and a new community hub, with an accessible library and multi-generational programming.

The province — which announced the funds today — says the upgrades will allow the arena to host more community events and expand access to sport and recreation for residents, including those in the 1,100 new homes planned for the surrounding area.

In addition, the government is investing $420,000 to retrofit the YMCA of Niagara with energy-efficient LED lighting and replace two rooftop HVAC units and $698,000 to support the refurbishment of the Niagara Olympic Club’s track and field infrastructure.

“This investment is about more than just resurfacing a track, it’s about strengthening our Athletic community and ensuring equitable access to safe, high-quality sport infrastructure for generations to come,” says Sharon Stewart, Chair of Niagara Olympic Club.

An application-based program, CSRIF is a part of the government’s plan to “protect Ontario workers, businesses and families by unleashing the economy and getting more shovels in the ground.”

Its $200 billion investment will be spent on building highways, hospitals, transit, schools and other critical infrastructure across the province.

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