Tuesday, September 16, 2025
The Government of Ontario announced it is investing over $6.3 million to support the construction of a new multi-season covered outdoor arena in Curve Lake First Nation, and $10 million to for the construction of the South Bowmanville Recreation Centre in the Municipality of Clarington.
This 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 the construction of the new arena in Curve Lake First Nation, which will create more opportunities for children, seniors and families to stay active and connected within their community,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport. “The transformation of the South Bowmanville Recreation Centre into a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose facility will protect local jobs and serve as a catalyst for economic growth by attracting major sporting events to the region, helping build a more resilient and self-reliant economy,” he added.
The new arena in Curve Lake will be designed for year-round use, featuring a covered, refrigerated ice surface alongside essential amenities, including change rooms and accessible washrooms. The arena will provide a central community hub for activities like hockey and figure skating during the winter months, and lacrosse and ball hockey in the warmer seasons. The facility will be available for community programs and events, after-school activities, skill-building workshops, seasonal markets, cultural gatherings and youth leagues.
“This $6.3 million investment through the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund for a new multi-season, covered and refrigerated outdoor arena is a significant step forward for Curve Lake First Nation,” said Chief Laurie Hockaday. “This facility will provide a safe inclusive space for recreation, sport and cultural gatherings year-round, and it will advance our community’s vision and commitment to Health and Wellness.”
The government’s $10 million investment will help develop the South Bowmanville Recreation Centre into a dynamic community hub for sport and recreation. Key additions include a FIBA-standard double gymnasium, a 25-m lap pool and therapeutic tank, a FIFA-size indoor turf field, five new multi-purpose spaces and an over-850-square metre outdoor refrigerated skating trail. These upgrades will support over 50,000 users annually and will accommodate growing demand for basketball, swimming, skating and soccer, while also enhancing programming for all ages — from youth day camps to rehabilitation-focused aquatic therapy for seniors.
“This modern multi-sport destination is designed to welcome everyone, from first-timers finding their groove to our homegrown athletes chasing greatness. Picture epic weekend tournaments, kids’ first swim lessons, early morning yoga, and family skates along Durham Region’s first outdoor refrigerated trail, one of the longest in Ontario. With so much more to experience, this is where generations of awesome memories will be made,” said Adrian Foster, Mayor of Clarington. “The South Bowmanville Recreation Centre is a shining example of what’s possible when we dream big and plan smart.”
Featured image: (Government of Ontario)
