$2 Million to Build New Community and Recreation Centre
Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing, announced that the Ontario government is investing $2 million through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to help the City of North Bay build a new community and recreation centre. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, the province is making strategic investments to build stronger, healthier and more self-reliant Northern communities by revitalizing local infrastructure, increasing local tourism and helping residents stay active and connected.
“The Ontario government is pleased to support the City of North Bay’s community and recreation centre with an investment of $2 million through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation,” said Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing. “Our area has needed to expand our arena inventory, and this facility will allow for more opportunities for children and families while providing the opportunity for local sports organizations to host more tournaments, developing economic spinoffs for our community.”
“We thank the Province of Ontario and MPP Fedeli for supporting North Bay’s new Community and Recreation Centre. This funding is an investment in our city’s future, helping to advance a facility that will serve residents of all ages and abilities for generations to come.” – Peter Chirico, Mayor of North Bay.
The North Bay Community and Recreation Centre will have two ice rinks with spectator capacity for 250 people, 14 dressing rooms, an indoor track and outdoor walking paths. The building will also feature a specially designed ceiling that helps reduce the amount of heat reflecting onto the ice surface. Along with advanced insulation and heat pumps, it contributes to better energy efficiency. The centre will be able to accommodate sports tournaments, trades shows, conferences, small gatherings and other events. With a larger sports facility, residents can access recreational activities more easily and the city will welcome more visitors, helping to increase its hospitality and tourism sectors.
Announced in June 2025, the Ontario government is refocusing the NOHFC to prioritize investments that protect northern industries and jobs, mitigate the impacts of U.S. tariffs and trade disruptions and secure new opportunities for the long-term prosperity of Northern Ontario. The renewed focus is increasing competitiveness and ensuring the North remains a leader in Ontario’s economy. This new direction is in addition to the province’s recently announced investment of an additional $30 million over the next three years, bringing the NOHFC’s annual budget to a total of $110 million. Together, these initiatives will benefit communities of all sizes, both rural and urban, and Indigenous communities.
