MPP Jill Dunlop Announces Ontario’s Upgrade to Recreational Facilities in the Town of Penetanguishene

June 30, 2025

The Ontario government is investing $190,500.00 to protect jobs and upgrade/rehabilitate the arena and curling club in the Town of Penetanguishene. This investment is part of the province’s $200 million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF), a provincewide initiative that helps communities revitalize local facilities, grow the economy and promote active, healthy living across Ontario. The project will replace HVAC units, relace the arena’s chiller, and complete structural maintenance at the arena and curling club.

“Congratulations to the Town of Penetanguishene on securing this substantial provincial funding through the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund to replace critical HVAC units and complete essential structural maintenance at the local arena and curling club,” said Jill Dunlop, MPP for Simcoe North. “

These upgrades will ensure safer, more comfortable and energy, efficient, facilities- keeping ice quality consistent, reducing operating costs, and creating a healthier environment for athletes and spectators. By investing in these community hubs, we’re strengthening opportunities for year-round recreation, boosting local engagement, and safeguarding a legacy of sport and wellness for residence of all ages.

“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.

“On behalf of the Town of Penetanguishene, I would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Government of Ontario for their continued support and investment in sport and recreation facilities across our communities through the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Grant,” said Douglas Rawson, Mayor, Town of Penetanguishene. “We are excited and grateful to receive this grant, which will provide crucial funding for much-needed repairs and maintenance to the Penetanguishene Memorial Community Centre and the Penetanguishene Curling Club – two valued and well-used facilities in our town.”

This support will help offset the cost of a new chiller for the arena, HVAC units and structural painting at both facilities as part of our 2025 and 2026 capital budgets. Thanks to this investment, we will be able to extend the lifespan of both facilities, ensuring the Town has indoor spaces to support resident physical activity.