August 13, 2026

Provincial funding will build strong communities and promote healthy, active living

SIOUX NARROWS-NESTOR FALLS — The Ontario government is investing more than $548,000 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to support two recreation projects in Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls. As part of its plan to protect Ontario, the province is making targeted investments to help improve local infrastructure that fosters strong, resilient and vibrant northern communities.

“Our government is pleased to support the improvement of these important recreational assets so they can accommodate more people and continue to impact on the community and local economy,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “These investments demonstrate the broad and impactful role the NOHFC continues to play across northern Ontario.”

The Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls is receiving $375,000 towards the redevelopment of Bass Lake Park. Improvements include a new trail connecting the park with the Nestor Falls bike trail, accessible washrooms, upgrades to the playground equipment and the picnic shelter, as well as landscaping to improve the usability of the beach. The project will preserve and enhance this important public asset, while promoting community well-being, active living and tourism.

The township is also receiving $173,430 to expand the Sioux Narrows Seniors Centre, creating additional space to accommodate a growing number of participants. The expanded space will provide an appropriate venue for active living activities and a variety of other events.

“The seniors centre is a vibrant and active group in our community. It contributes and enhances the quality of life for so many of our residents,” says Gale Black, Mayor for Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls. “We are grateful for the funding from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund to expand the physical space of the centre to incorporate new and increased activities and participation from community members. The funding we have received from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund for the Bass Lake Park redevelopment ensures that the Township is able to provide excellent community space for all residents, but especially children and families in our community. Without this support, projects such as this would not be able to happen.”

“Today’s investments are a testament to the NOHFC, as it continues to support Northern municipalities, whether it be upgrades to Senior Centres or parks,” said Greg Rickford, MPP for Kenora-Rainy River. “Partnering with the Township of Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls, we are ensuring residents and visitors have accessibility to the top-class infrastructure that sustains our communities.”

The Ontario government is prioritizing investments through the NOHFC 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 boosting competitiveness and ensuring the North remains a leader in Ontario’s economy. This new direction is in addition to the province’s investment of an additional $30 million over 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, including Indigenous communities.

Quick Facts

• Through its funding programs, the NOHFC offers support to public and private sector economic development projects across northern Ontario.
• Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $1 billion in over 8,600 projects in northern Ontario, leveraging more than $3.3 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 13,400 jobs.

Additional Resources

• The NOHFC, Northern Development Officesand Small Business Enterprise Centres support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and government funding programs.