The Ontario government is investing $11 million to support the construction of two recreation projects in Guelph.

Of the funding, $10 million is being allocated to the construction of the South End Community Centre. The 160,000 square-foot multi-purpose facility will feature twin ice pads, a double gymnasium, an aquatic centre with a lap and teaching pool, multi-purpose rooms and community use spaces. The new centre will operate seven days a week, offering a variety of programs to enhance community health, promote physical activity and serve as a hub for residents in Guelph and the surrounding area.

The remaining $1 million will go to the Lyon Outdoor Pool Rehabilitation Project to upgrade the aging facility. These improvements will extend the pool’s lifespan to ensure continued access to outdoor aquatic programming and safe summer recreation for residents.

“These two grants are incredible news for Guelph, and mean our residents will have access to world-class recreation facilities for generations to come,” said Mayor Cam Guthrie. “On behalf of the city, we extend our thanks to the provincial government. With so many affordability pressures affecting Guelph residents, these grants are coming at the perfect time.”

The province is making the investments through its $200-million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund, which aims to revitalize local facilities and promote active, healthy living across Ontario.

“At a time when Ontario families are facing rising costs due to tariffs, our government is proud to support projects that deliver better services for communities while creating more opportunities for kids, seniors 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.”

The fund is an application-based program. It supports municipalities, Indigenous communities and non-profit organizations through two streams: one for repairing and rehabilitating existing sport and recreation facilities and spaces and another for building new or transformative sport and recreation infrastructure.