The federal and provincial governments announced combined funding of more than $2 million for renovations to the Herbert H. Carnegie Centennial Centre in North York.

The building, which was built in 1966, was originally known as the North York Centennial Arena. It was renamed in 2001 to honour the former hockey star Herbert H. Carnegie. Each year, it serves about 60,000 residents.

The renovation work at the arena, which is also being funded by the City of Toronto, involves repairs and upgrades to improve the quality, accessibility and lifespan of the arena. This includes the replacement of the existing rink slab, windows, doors, frames, flooring, Zamboni slab, millwork, benches, electrical and mechanical systems, plumbing fixtures, interior and exterior signage and security systems, as well as upgrades to washrooms and change rooms. A new elevator to the second floor of the arena will also be installed.

"Our government is proud to be supporting repairs and improvements to the Herbert H. Carnegie Centennial Centre with a close to $945,000 investment,” said Eglinton—Lawrence MPP Robin Martin. “More than 60,000 people use this facility every year, and I personally have fond memories of bringing my son here to play hockey as a child. I look forward to it being upgraded so it can continue to be an important community resource for future generations."

Toronto native Herbert Carnegie was one of the first Black semi-professional hockey players in Canada. In 1954, he founded the Future Aces Hockey School, one of Canada's first hockey schools. Through his work in training young hockey players, Carnegie became a member of both the Order of Ontario and the Order of Canada. Carnegie passed away in 2012.

"My father was overwhelmed with the outpouring of the community when this arena was named in his honour in 2001,” said daughter Bernice Carnegie. “We, the Carnegie family, continue to feel a sense of pride in knowing his many humanitarian contributions were valued with this lasting tribute to his memory."

The Government of Canada is investing $1,134,159 in the project through the Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada plan. The Government of Ontario is providing $944,187, while the City of Toronto is contributing $757,051.