Monday, August 11, 2025
Construction will soon be underway for a new community recreational space in Dawson, after a combined investment of $63.9 million from the federal and territorial governments.
The new Dawson City Recreation Centre will provide modern, safe, and accessible amenities for residents and visitors alike. Located on the southeast corner of Dome Road and the North Klondike Highway, the centre will include a variety of recreational amenities, such as an ice rink, curling sheets, a fitness centre, an indoor play area, and an indoor walking loop. Additionally, there will be a community programming space, an office area, and a multi-purpose room.
“Our government supports local infrastructure projects that can serve Northerners and families more holistically and sustainably. The new Dawson City Recreation Centre will be an accessible and inclusive hub space where people can connect and access diverse amenities and programming for many years to come,” said Dr. Brendan Hanley, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs and MP for Yukon.
The design and construction of the new facility have been planned through community feedback and partnership with the City of Dawson and Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in. The new facility will be open year-round and is designed to holistically support health and wellness while honouring local priorities and heritage.
“Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in are thrilled to see this long-anticipated project commence in our traditional territory, and we are grateful for all the planning and careful consideration that has gone into making this an appropriate facility for our community. Culturally appropriate and inclusive recreation facilities and programming are a key component to healthy communities, especially in the North. We look forward to working with our partners in the Government of Canada, Yukon Government and the City of Dawson to ensure Dawson’s new recreation centre is enjoyed, maintained, and celebrated by and for our community for years to come,” said Hähkè Darren Taylor, Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in.
The Government of Canada is investing $40,000,000 through the The Government of Canada is investing $40,000,000 through the Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure Stream and $7,925,000 through the Rural and Northern Communities Infrastructure stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The Government of Yukon is investing $15,975,000. and $7,925,000 through the Rural and Northern Communities Infrastructure stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The Government of Yukon is investing $15,975,000.
“This is a proud and transformational moment for Dawson. For years, our community has expressed a clear vision – a modern recreation centre that reflects who we are and supports the health, well being and connection of all residents. Today, that vision takes a giant step forward. On behalf of Council and the community, I sincerely thank the Government of Canada and the Government of Yukon for their substantial and unwavering investment in this future-defining project. I also extend deep appreciation for our partners at Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in for their collaboration and cultural guidance through the planning process. Together, we are building more than a facility – we are investing in community spirit, inclusivity, and opportunity for generations to come,” said Stephen Johnson, Mayor of the City of Dawson.
Featured image: (City of Dawson)
