$200 million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund supporting economic growth and building healthier communities
September 4, 2025 – For Immediate Release
Collingwood, ON – Today, Brian Saunderson, MPP for Simcoe-Grey was pleased to announce that the Ontario Government is investing $980,600.00 to install a roof over the outdoor rink in Collingwood. This investment is part of the province’s $200 million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF), a province-wide initiative that helps communities revitalize local facilities, grow the economy and promote active, healthy living across Ontario.
“This investment is an important step in extending the use of the rink during the winter months, while also ensuring it can be enjoyed year-round for a wide range of community activities,” said MPP Saunderson. “The outdoor rink has long been a cornerstone of Collingwood’s recreational infrastructure, and I am proud that our government is partnering with the Town of Collingwood to strengthen and protect this valuable community asset.”
This project will maximize the use of the facility, increase operating hours and functionality year round, extend the ice season, increase rental revenues, and reduce demand on indoor rinks. It will reduce hydro consumption and allow solar panel installation to reduce operating expenses.
“At a time when Ontario families are facing rising costs due to tariffs, our government is proud to support organizations focused on delivering better services for people while breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for children and young people,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport. “With investments in infrastructure like this, we are protecting Ontario jobs, strengthening our communities and building a more resilient and self-reliant economy.”
CSRIF is a key part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario workers, businesses and families by unleashing the economy and getting more shovels in the ground, with a historic $200 billion investment to build highways, hospitals, transit, schools and other critical infrastructure across the province.
“We are incredibly grateful to the province for this vital investment in a much-needed roof over Collingwood’s Central Park outdoor rink. This roof will greatly extend the usable time Collingwood residents can enjoy playing pickleball, basketball, hockey, figure skating, recreational skating, and even roller skating! This funding is another example of the collaboration between orders of government for the benefit of our residents.”
– Mayor Yvonne Hamlin
QUICK FACTS
- The Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF) is an application-based program providing a $200 million investment over two years. It supports municipalities, Indigenous communities, and non-profit organizations, through two streams: one for repairing and rehabilitating existing sport and recreation facilities and spaces, and another for building new or transformative sport and recreation infrastructure.
- Each year, Ontario invests $32 million in community recreation programs to help achieve active, healthy communities across the province, including Ontario’s After School Program, the Inclusive Grassroots Recreation program and the Ontario Amateur Sport Fund.
- Sport contributes more than $7.5 billion to Ontario’s economy every year, creating tens of thousands of meaningful and good-paying jobs in every corner of the province.
ADDITIONAL RESOUCES
