The Ontario government announced last week an $11.1-million investment in Niagara Region to upgrade the Chippawa Willoughby Memorial Arena and support other improvements to sport and recreation facilitates.
The bulk of the funds, $10 million, will go toward upgrading the 52-year-old Chippawa Willougby Memorial Arena in Niagara Falls.
Upgrades will include the construction of a new NHL-sized ice pad, seven changerooms, more seating for spectators, and a new community hub, with library and multi-generational programming.
“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 children and young people,” said Minister of Sport Neil Lumsdon.
“With investments in infrastructure like this, we are protecting Ontario jobs, strengthening our communities and building a more resilient and self-reliant economy.”
According to the province, the upgrades will allow the arena to host more community events, as well as expand access to sport and recreational activities for residents, including those moving into the 1,100 new homes planned for nearby areas.
“This major investment will change lives for generations in Niagara Falls,” said Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati. “It will support our growing community, replacing our 52-year-old arena with a new NHL-sized rink, modern library and year-round indoor sports facility.”
“It will be a cornerstone for recreation, learning and community connection.”
Two additional projects the province is funding through this announcement includes $420,000 to retrofit the YMCA of Niagara with energy-efficient LED lighting and replace two rooftop HVAC units, as well as $698,000 to help refurbish the Niagara Olympic Club’s track and field infrastructure.
This funding will come out of the $200-million community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund, established by the province in a recent provincial budget.
Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff issued a statement following the announcement as well.
“This $11.1 million provincial investment through the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund will help repair and upgrade three key sport and recreation facilities across Niagara,” said Oosterhoff.
“Today’s announcement is great news for residents in Niagara Falls, as well as community members and athletes who participate in programs and utilize the facilities at the YMCA of Niagara and Niagara Olympic Club.”
Jay Goldberg is the Canadian Affairs Manager at the Consumer Choice Center. He previously served as the Ontario Director at the Canadian Taxpayers Federation and a policy fellow at the Munk School of Public Policy and Global Affairs. Jay holds a Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Toronto.
