The provincial government has announced the launch of the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF), providing $200 million to support the development and renovation of sport and recreation facilities across the province.
Premier Doug Ford revealed the fund during his speech at the 2024 Association of Municipalities of Ontario conference in Ottawa, telling the crowd at AMO these facilities are the heartbeat of a community.
The CSRIF, introduced as part of the 2024 Budget: Building a Better Ontario, offers two funding streams. The first stream will provide grants between $150,000 and $1 million for repairing and upgrading existing facilities, with applications due by October 29, 2024. The second stream will allocate up to $10 million for the construction of new facilities or replacing those at the end of their lifespan, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until funding is fully allocated.
The premier gave a break down of the funding details.
For-profit organizations can also apply for funding support on new builds only.
The province says these investments makes it easier for people to create healthier, more active lifestyles, makes sports more accessible, and helps more communities across the province host local, national and international events and competitions.
“The launch of this new fund is one more way our government is helping to build stronger communities where people can live, work, play, and thrive,” said Neil Lumsden, Ontario’s Minister of Sport. The program is expected to enhance access to sport and recreation, contributing to a healthier Ontario for generations to come.
More information is available at Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund | ontario.ca.
(Written by: Joseph Goden with files from Grant Deme)
