$11.8M for recreation infrastructure upgrades in Kitchener and Waterloo

The Government of Ontario announced it is investing over $11.8 million to protect jobs and support the construction of a new quad-gymnasium at RBJ Schlegel Park, and upgrades to other sports and recreational facilities in Waterloo Region. These projects are part of the $200 million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF) – a provincewide initiative to help communities revitalize local facilities, grow the economy and promote active, healthy living across Ontario.

“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.”

The government’s $10 million investment in the quad-gymnasium in Kitchener will create more court space for sports like pickleball, indoor cricket, basketball and volleyball. Once complete, the upgrades will allow for the hosting of sporting events and tournaments, which will bring even more economic benefits to the region.

In addition, the province is investing:

• $650,000 to upgrade snowmaking equipment and lighting, and purchase a new surface lift at the Chicopee Ski & Summer Resort in Kitchener. The investment will help extend the lifespan of a facility that has been a community hub for the last 90 years.
• $775,000 to revitalize the Albert McCormick Community Centre in Waterloo, including upgraded entrances with sliding doors and automatic openers to improve accessibility, a refreshed lobby, and new cooling systems that will support year-round programming.

“The CRSIF is supporting communities across Ontario by upgrading vital facilities and building lasting hubs for healthy, active living. We’re grateful that the province is investing in Waterloo through this program, with meaningful improvements to the Albert McCormick Community Centre. These enhancements will make the space more accessible, welcoming and functional, ensuring AMCC remains a place where people of all ages and abilities can connect, participate and thrive,” said Dorothy McCabe, Mayor of Waterloo.

• Nearly $380,000 to replace end-of-life refrigeration equipment for the ice rinks at the Wilmot Recreation Complex, boosting energy efficiency and ensuring the rinks can continue to serve the community.

“On behalf of Kitchener residents, we are incredibly grateful to the Province of Ontario for their investment in Kitchener’s Indoor Recreation Centre,” said Berry Vrbanovic, Mayor, City of Kitchener. “This first-of-its-kind facility for our community will not only serve as a hub for sports and recreation – it’s also expected to attract major tournaments that bring new energy and dollars into our local economy. With the Province of Ontario’s commitment to our multi-purpose gymnasium project, we’re building Kitchener together.”

Officials also celebrated a major milestone in the construction of its new indoor recreation complex with a ceremonial beam signing at the project site. Provincial officials, City Council and the project team gathered to sign the final structural beam before it was placed, symbolizing progress and community investment in this landmark project.

This marks the second investment in the recreation complex from the Province of Ontario. The province supported the initial phase of the complex with $8.1 million through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.

Once complete, the new 222,000-square-foot recreation complex will include an aquatic centre with lap pool and leisure pool, a four-turf field house, a quad gymnasium, two cricket practice nets, an elevated walking track, and multipurpose rooms – serving residents of all ages and abilities. The project remains on track for completion in late summer 2026.

“The new quad-gymnasium at RBJ Schlegel Park is huge for Kitchener. It means more opportunities for athletes to play, for families to stay active, and for our community to come together through sport. Investments like the gymnasium at RBJ and the Revitalization project at the Wilmot Recreation Complex don’t just support infrastructure, they support healthier lifestyles and stronger community connections. I’m proud to see our government investing in projects that keep our community vibrant and that provide healthy opportunities for the folks who live here,” said Mike Harris, MPP for Kitchener – Conestoga.

“The Wilmot Recreation Complex is the heart of our community, a place where families come together, young athletes grow and residents of all ages stay active. Home to teams like the Wilmot Wolverines, the Huskies, the Figure Skating Club and the New Hamburg Firebirds, it plays a vital role in supporting youth, girls and community sport. We are deeply grateful to the provincial government for recognizing the importance of rural recreation and for supporting the long-term vitality of the Wilmot Recreation Complex,” said Natasha Salonen, Mayor of Wilmot.

“Chicopee is grateful to have been chosen as a recipient of the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund for the 2nd phase of our Learning Centre Renovation Project. The funds will be a big help as we continue the transformation of the iconic destination,” said Bill Creighton, CEO of Chicopee Ski & Summer Resort.

Featured image: (City of Kitchener)