Hundreds of Projects to Receive Government Funding for Recreational Infrastructure

TORONTO, Ontario, July 7, 2009 — On June 26, more than $380 million was announced for hundreds of recreational infrastructure projects across Ontario. Over the last 10 days, recipients and elected officials have been celebrating regional funding through local announcements across the province. Investments will go towards upgrades and renovations of local hockey rinks, soccer fields, pools, parks, playgrounds, trails and community centres under the Recreational Infrastructure Canada (RInC) program in Ontario and the Ontario Recreation Program (Ontario REC).

The full list of the municipalities, First Nations and not-for-profit organizations that will benefit from investments was released today. Work on these projects will ensure that recreational facilities throughout the province will be able to offer improved services and activities for residents of all ages and fitness levels to enjoy. Many approved projects are anticipated to begin work immediately to take advantage of the 2009 construction season.

"Our government is pleased to see the overwhelming positive response we have received for recreational infrastructure initiatives throughout Ontario," said the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry. "I look forward to watching these projects progress and to seeing the ways they strengthen our communities."

"Local rinks, pools and playgrounds are a vital part of every Ontario community," said the Honourable George Smitherman, Ontario's Deputy Premier and Minister of Energy and Infrastructure. "We are committed to supporting these public spaces. This funding will mean that generations of Ontarians will have places to gather, meet new friends and keep active — for years to come."  

For a full list of approved projects, please visit www.rinc-on.ca.

Learn More

Get more information about recreational infrastructure funding in Ontario.

Learn how the Government of Canada is investing in infrastructure.

Learn how the Government of Ontario is helping to build and revitalize infrastructure across the province.

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For more information (media only), please contact:

Pema Lhalungpa, Office of the Honourable Tony Clement, 613-995-9001
Amy Tang, Office of the Honourable George Smitherman, 416-327-6747