Ontario Investing $8 Million to Upgrade Alexander Community Centre in Ottawa
Major investment supports local jobs, economic growth, and active living in the nation’s capital
OTTAWA — The Ontario government is investing over $8 million to expand and upgrade the Alexander Community Centre in Ottawa’s Carlington neighbourhood, marking a significant step forward in revitalizing the city’s recreation infrastructure and promoting community well-being.
The investment, part of the province’s $200 million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF), will support construction of a new 6,243-square-foot gymnasium — three times larger than the current one — designed for basketball, volleyball, pickleball, and other sports.
The existing gym will be transformed into a multi-purpose space for cultural, recreational, and fitness programs, while the overall project will double the centre’s capacity to host over 100,000 visitors annually. The upgraded facility will also feature expanded gathering areas, modern washrooms, and improved IT infrastructure, enhancing accessibility and comfort for all users.
Thrilled to be at the Alexander Community Centre with Minister @NeilLumsdenMPP, Councillor Brockington @RiverWardRiley, MPP @GeorgesDarouze , and MPP Sarrazin for the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Funding (CSRIF) announcement. This new gym and renovated recreation… pic.twitter.com/s9GTME5Os3
— Mark Sutcliffe (@_MarkSutcliffe) October 6, 2025
“This investment in the Alexander Community Centre is about more than just bricks and mortar — it’s about protecting jobs, strengthening communities, and building a more resilient and self-reliant economy for the future,”
— Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport
Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe welcomed the announcement, noting the long-term benefits for families and local residents.
“This new gym will make a huge difference for the families who live here and for the entire community,” said Sutcliffe. “It’s about creating more opportunities for people of all ages to stay active, healthy, and connected.”
The Alexander Community Centre expansion reflects the provincial government’s broader strategy to invest in critical infrastructure projects that promote economic growth, job creation, and community well-being. CSRIF projects are supporting municipalities, Indigenous communities, and non-profits across Ontario through targeted funding for both new builds and major upgrades.
According to the Ministry of Sport, Ontario’s recreation sector contributes more than $7.5 billion to the province’s economy each year, supporting tens of thousands of good-paying jobs across urban and rural communities.
MPP Stéphane Sarrazin (Glengarry—Prescott—Russell) highlighted how this investment contributes to stronger local economies:
“By expanding access to modern, inclusive spaces, we’re giving more families, youth, and seniors the opportunity to stay active and connect with one another. This investment also protects good local jobs, ensuring stability for workers and families in our region.”
The Alexander Community Centre expansion is one of several projects across Ontario funded under CSRIF, which continues to enhance public spaces and improve quality of life across the province.
Follow GTA Today on social media for more local and provincial news. #GTAToday
