Ontario Invests $11.8M to Boost Sports and Recreation Infrastructure in Kitchener-Waterloo

New quad-gymnasium and facility upgrades part of $200M fund to strengthen communities and support healthy, active living

KITCHENER — The Ontario government is investing over $11.8 million to enhance community sport and recreation infrastructure in the Kitchener-Waterloo region, funding projects that will support local jobs, promote physical activity, and help attract new sporting events and tourism.

Announced under the $200 million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF), the investment includes a major $10 million commitment to build a new quad-gymnasium at RBJ Schlegel Park in Kitchener. The gym will provide expanded court space for indoor sports like pickleball, cricket, basketball, and volleyball — and position the city to host large tournaments that bring both economic and community benefits.

“This first-of-its-kind facility for our community will not only serve as a hub for sports and recreation — it’s also expected to attract major tournaments that bring new energy and dollars into our local economy,” said Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic.

Other funded projects include:

• $650,000 to upgrade snowmaking, lighting, and install a new surface lift at Chicopee Ski & Summer Resort, enhancing the facility’s year-round operations and extending its 90-year legacy.

• $775,000 to revitalize Albert McCormick Community Centre in Waterloo, with new sliding doors, lobby updates, accessibility features, and cooling systems for year-round use.

• Nearly $380,000 to replace aging refrigeration systems at Wilmot Recreation Complex, ensuring continued ice rink use and greater energy efficiency.

“These upgrades help make our public spaces more accessible, more reliable, and better equipped to serve a growing population,” said MPP Jess Dixon (Kitchener South – Hespeler).

The CSRIF is part of Ontario’s broader $200 billion infrastructure strategy and reflects the province’s commitment to protecting workers and strengthening communities through strategic investments.

“This is about creating opportunities for children, families, and young athletes while strengthening local economies and building a more resilient Ontario,” said Minister of Sport Neil Lumsden.

Regional Impact

Local leaders across the region praised the funding as transformative.

“The Wilmot Recreation Complex is the heart of our community,” said Wilmot Mayor Natasha Salonen. “This investment ensures it remains a vibrant space for youth and community sport.”

Waterloo Mayor Dorothy McCabe echoed that sentiment, noting that enhancements at Albert McCormick Community Centre “ensure AMCC remains a place where people of all ages and abilities can connect, participate, and thrive.”

Bill Creighton, CEO of Chicopee, added, “The funds will be a big help as we continue the transformation of the iconic destination.”

Beyond infrastructure, CSRIF also helps position Ontario as a leader in active living. Sport contributes over $7.5 billion annually to Ontario’s economy, creating tens of thousands of jobs provincewide.

With more than 23 projects already underway across Ontario under CSRIF, the government continues to invest in accessible, inclusive, and future-ready recreational infrastructure that builds healthier, stronger communities.

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