Northeastern Ontario to receive $12.6M to upgrade recreation infrastructure

The Government of Ontario announced it is investing over $12.6 million to support the construction of the new Valley East Twin Pad Multipurpose Sports Complex in the City of Greater Sudbury, along with upgrades to other sports and recreation facilities across northeastern Ontario.

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 Valley East Twin Pad Multipurpose Sports Complex in Greater Sudbury will help create a state-of-the-art facility featuring two NHL-sized accessible rinks, 18 changerooms, a multipurpose gymnasium, support spaces, daycare, administrative offices, a heated viewing area, café and concession area and a public concourse. Designed to meet the needs of athletes, families and community members, the complex will also create jobs and support economic development as a community hub and world-class events hosting venue.

“Thank you to the Government of Ontario for this major investment through the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund,” said Paul Lefebvre, Mayor of Greater Sudbury. “This $10 million contribution will help us deliver a modern, inclusive and accessible facility that meets the growing needs of families, athletes and community members in Valley East and across Greater Sudbury. With strong provincial support, we’re building not just a sports complex, but a true community hub for generations to come.”

In addition, the province is investing:

• $1,000,000 to replace the aging refrigeration system at the Espanola Arena with a state-of-the-art CO₂ system. This upgrade will reduce energy consumption while ensuring continued service for residents.
• $614,600 to support critical repairs of the Kashechewan Arena, including roof replacement, bathroom renovations and lighting and safety upgrades. These improvements will extend the life of the facility and create a safer, more welcoming environment for the community.
• $585,250 for renovations at the Municipality of Markstay-Warren’s Multiplex to support expanded programming such as floor hockey, pickleball and Zumba, creating more opportunities for residents to stay active in their community.

• $484,100 to replace the roof at Don Shepherdson Memorial Arena in the City of Temiskaming Shores, improving energy efficiency and extending the facility’s lifespan.

“This is a great announcement for our Greater Sudbury Region, as well as a number of communities across northeastern Ontario. By investing in important community spaces, our government is helping to ensure our northern communities have the resources to support their health and well-being now and in the future,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth.

“These announcements made here today show the commitment of our government, promoting the family bond between sports and communities for our future generations. Investing in community sports isn’t just about physical activity; it’s about cultivating connection, inclusivity and pride across generations. The ripple effect of such initiatives can be immense: inspiring young people, creating safer and more engaged neighbourhoods and strengthening the cultural fabric of a region,” said Bill Rosenberg, MPP for Algoma-Manitoulin.

Featured image: (L to R) Greater Sudbury Mayor Paul Lefebvre, Algoma-Manitoulin MPP Bill Rosenberg, Ontario Minister of Sport Neil Lumsden and Minister of Northern Economic Development George Pirie