The Ontario government has announced an investment of more than $11 million to upgrade the Chippawa Willoughby Memorial Arena and support other improvements to sport and recreation facilities in the Niagara Region.

The projects are part of the $200-million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund, a province-wide initiative to revitalize local facilities, grow the economy and promote active, healthy living across Ontario.

“This major investment will change lives for generations in Niagara Falls,” said Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati. “It will support our growing community, replacing our 52-year-old arena with a new NHL-sized rink, modern library and year-round indoor sports facility. It will be a cornerstone for recreation, learning and community connection.”

The government’s $10 million investment allow the arena to host more community events and expand access to sport and recreation for residents, including those in the 1,100 new homes planned for the surrounding area.

The province is also investing $420,000 to retrofit the YMCA of Niagara with energy-efficient LED lighting and replace two rooftop HVAC units, and $698,000 to support the refurbishment of the Niagara Olympic Club’s track and field infrastructure.