Local sports and recreation facilities get boost from the Province

Sports and recreation facilities across Ontario got a significant show of support last week as the Province of Ontario announced a $300 million boost to the Community Sport & Recreation Infrastructure Fund.

Announced as part of the 2026 Ontario Budget, the boost brings the Fund's total funding pot to $500 million to support local community projects.

“Our government is delivering on our plan to protect Ontario by making historic local investments that strengthen our communities today and for the future,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport, in a statement. “The additional $300 million in the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund will support the construction of new facilities, allowing more families across Ontario to enjoy fun, healthy activities and ensure our local athletes have a place to compete close to home.”

More details regarding the funding will be announced by the Ontario Government later this year, but the announcement has already seen cross-sector support.

"Sport has the power to inspire and unite Canadians like nothing else. Investing in sport infrastructure goes beyond building facilities — it ensures athletes at all levels have access to modern, local spaces where they can participate, hone their skills, and reach their full potential,” said David Shoemaker, Secretary General and CEO of the Canadian Olympic Committee. “Through Team Canada 2035, the Canadian Olympic Committee is committed to getting 1 million more young people involved in organized sport across the country and elevating Team Canada's high-performance success, and that starts with critical investments in community spaces like these. We applaud the Ontario government for today's announcement and for expanding opportunities for athletes across the province."

Added Marco Di Buono, President of Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities: “When children and youth have access to recreation spaces, it fosters lifelong participation in sport. Through investments like the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund, Ontario is leading the way in expanding access to recreation and building facilities for the next generation — ensuring more communities can unlock the benefits of sport."

Organizations such as the Canadian Paralympic Committee and Parasport Ontario also highlighted the importance of investments like these to make facilities – and sport – more accessible.

“This significant investment in infrastructure will go a long way towards supporting a vibrant, thriving sport system across the province,” said Karen O'Neill, CEO of the Canadian Paralympic Committee. “Having access to quality, accessible, and nearby facilities is a critical factor in athletes being able to participate in sport and ultimately reach their goals. Thank you to the Ontario government for this important investment in sport and supporting more access for all to experience the power of sport."

By Brock Weir
Editor
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter