Province Investing $13.7 million to Upgrade Recreation Infrastructure in Northwestern Ontario

July 28, 2025

KENORA — The Ontario government is investing over $13.7 million to protect jobs and 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. These 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.

“Our government is proud to support Indigenous and northern communities with investments that deliver better services for people, while creating opportunities for children, seniors and families to stay active,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport. “The construction of the new multi-purpose complex in Wauzhushk Onigum Nation, alongside projects throughout the region, will help protect local jobs, strengthen communities and build a more resilient northern economy.”

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 Wauzhushk Onigum Nation Community Living and Wellness Centre is more than just a building; it’s a catalyst for positive change,” said Chief Skead, of Wauzhushk Onigum Nation. “This modern facility will provide a safe and inclusive space for our people to connect, grow and heal by fostering physical health and mental well-being. Our community will have a place to gather, celebrate and participate in recreational activities that promote Mino Bimaadiziwin – living the good life.”

In addition, the province is investing:

  • $743,400 for Shoal Lake #40 First Nation to upgrade its existing local arena with a new 1,305-square-foot fitness space, improving community access to the facility.
     
  • $998,000 for the Reverend Tommy Beardy Memorial Wee Che He Wayo-Gamik Family Treatment Centre to restore its arena, transforming it into a vibrant space for sport events and community gatherings.
     
  • $1,000,000 for Kasabonika Lake First Nation to upgrade and repair their arena, including preparations for a future ice plant, while improving functionality and safety features of the facility for community members.
     
  • $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.
     
  • $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.

CSRIF is a key part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario workers, businesses and families by unleashing the economy and getting more shovels in the ground, with a historic $200 billion investment to build highways, hospitals, transit, schools and other critical infrastructure across the province.

Quick Facts

  • The Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF) is an application-based program. It supports municipalities, Indigenous communities and non-profit organizations through two streams: one for repairing and rehabilitating existing sport and recreation facilities and spaces and another for building new or transformative sport and recreation infrastructure.
     
  • Each year, Ontario invests $32 million in community recreation programs to help achieve active, healthy communities across the province, including Ontario’s After School Program, the Inclusive Grassroots Recreation program and the Ontario Amateur Sport Fund.
     
  • Sport contributes more than $7.5 billion to Ontario’s economy every year, creating tens of thousands of meaningful and good-paying jobs in every corner of the province.

Quotes

“The investments we are recognizing today are serious game changers for families across Treaty 3 territory. We are using every means necessary to deliver real results — building spaces that bring families together, strengthen community wellness and create jobs that support long-term prosperity. The new multi-purpose complex in Wauzhushk Onigum Nation is a powerful example of how we are advancing meaningful reconciliation and economic opportunity that will be felt across the region — all while improving access to sport and recreation for youth, families and future athletes.”

– Greg Rickford
MPP for Kenora—Rainy River, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation and the Minister Responsible for Ring of Fire Economic and Community Partnerships

“This investment through the CSRIF program supports Shoal Lake 40’s vision to build a stronger, healthier community. The new fitness space is a vital step forward — improving access to wellness, supporting active lifestyles and ensuring our youth, families and Elders have what they need right here at home.”

– Chief Kevin Redsky
Shoal Lake 40 First Nation

“The Township of Ignace thanks the Minister and Ministry of Sport for approving $935,550 through the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF) for upgrades to the Ignace Recreational Centre. This Centre truly acts as the heart of our community, hosting and supporting, not only local sport activities, but also acting as a centre of activity and recreation for our residents year-round. Thanks to the Minister, the Ignace Recreational Centre will continue to act as the hub of our community’s ongoing efforts.”

– Mayor Kim Baigrie
Township of Ignace

Additional Resources

Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund

2025 Ontario Budget – A Plan to Protect Ontario