The Ontario government is putting $19.5 million toward building a brand-new, versatile recreation complex in Cambridge. This comes from the $200 million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF).
“Our government is making major investments to support projects that deliver better services for communities while creating more opportunities for children, seniors and families to stay active,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport. “The new Cambridge Recreation Complex will be a state-of-the-art facility that will boost the local economy by hosting tournaments, attracting visitors and serving as a community hub for generations to come.”
This funding will help create a 112,000-square-foot facility featuring an aquatics centre with a 10-lane, 25-metre pool, plus a warm water leisure and therapy pool. There’ll also be three gyms meeting FIBA standards, an indoor track for walking and running, fitness zones, multi-purpose rooms, a concession stand and even a public library. Designed for both everyday users and competitive events, this complex aims to give residents in this fast-growing area better access to sport and recreation.
Besides that, the province is also providing:
$1 million to help the City of Cambridge renovate and expand the 52-year-old Cambridge Preston Arena. This includes upgrades for accessibility, adding another ice rink to host tournaments, plus new spaces for community activities beyond ice sports. $1 million going to North Dumfries Township so they can fix up the Ayr Community Centre – replacing its roof, fixing eavestroughs and downspouts – basically extending its life.
“I’m pleased to see our government investing in vital recreational infrastructure in both North Dumfries and Cambridge,” said Brian Riddell, MPP for Cambridge. “These upgrades to the Ayr Community Centre and Cambridge Preston Arena will ensure our communities continue to have safe, modern spaces to gather, stay active, and build strong connections. I am also very excited to follow the construction and completion of the new Cambridge Recreation Complex.”
“We are deeply grateful for this funding from the Ontario government and the Ministry of Sport towards the Preston Memorial Auditorium expansion and the new Recreation Complex, as it represents a meaningful investment in Cambridge and recognizes these spaces as more than just a place to play,” said Jan Liggett, Mayor of Cambridge. “These funds will help to ensure our residents continue to stay active, connected, and build lifelong skills. The City has built outstanding facilities that will provide valuable programs and opportunities that will strengthen the fabric of our city for future generations to come. We look forward to opening the doors of these buildings for the public to enjoy. This investment also reflects a meaningful return on our residents’ tax dollars – delivering lasting value through inclusive, high-quality spaces that serve the entire community.”
Featured image: (Government of Ontario)
