Monday, June 23, 2025
The Government of Ontario announced it is investing over $15.7 million to support the construction of a new recreation centre for Mouvement d’implication francophone d’Orléans (MIFO) — a not-for-profit francophone, artistic, cultural and community organization.
This investment is part of the $200 million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF) — a provincewide initiative to help communities revitalize local facilities, protect jobs, grow the economy and promote active healthy living across Ontario.
“At a time when Ontario families are facing rising costs, our government is proud to support projects that deliver better services for people while breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for individuals and communities,” 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.”
Ontario’s investment will support the construction of a new state-of-the-art eco-friendly facility to replace the existing building and include multi-functional rooms, a gymnasium, running track, meeting rooms, an art gallery and more — expanding access to sports and recreational programming across the National Capital Region and eastern Ontario.
“Since day one, our government has invested in the social, cultural and economic vitality of Ontario’s francophone community,” said Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Francophone Affairs. “Because of this investment in Mouvement d’implication francophone d’Orléans, more families across the National Capital Region will be able to access a state-of-the-art, French language recreation centre for years to come.”
The project will allow MIFO to increase its annual capacity from 60,000 to 80,000 visitors and increase programming for all age groups, including seniors, youth and people with disabilities. The expanded infrastructure and inclusive amenities will also enable MIFO to introduce new services such as specialized camps, accessible fitness programs and community events, strengthening its role as a vibrant hub for the Francophone community in Orléans.
“This funding demonstrates the government’s concrete commitment to investing in essential infrastructure that supports both the well-being of communities — particularly the Francophone community in Orléans, the National Capital Region and eastern Ontario — and their economic vitality, while responding to a growing demand for versatile and inclusive spaces”, said Trèva Cousineau, President of the Mouvement d’implication francophone d’Orléans (MIFO). “This inspiring project, led by and for the community, embodies an ambitious vision: that of a true hub for gathering, recreation, sports, culture and celebration of our diverse Francophone community, today and for generations to come,” added Mélanie Routhier Boudreau, Executive Director of MIFO.
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.
“This is great news for Orléans and for our entire city. MIFO has played a vital role in elevating the cultural and community life of Ottawa’s francophone residents for decades. This new investment will help create a modern, inclusive space that supports healthy living, brings people together, and reflects the diversity of our city. I’m grateful to the Government of Ontario for supporting this important project and for investing in the future of our community,” said Mark Sutcliffe, Mayor of Ottawa.
Featured image: (Government of Ontario)
