November 10, 2026
Funding will support improvements to vital community infrastructure
DRYDEN and MACHIN — The Ontario government is investing $930,128 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to support renovations and upgrades at two arenas and one outdoor rink in northern Ontario. This funding delivers on the province’s plan to protect Ontario through strategic investments in important local infrastructure, helping residents connect and lead healthier, more active lives.
“By investing in community infrastructure, our government is strengthening local communities and creating more opportunities for people to stay active and connected,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “These recreational facilities will benefit residents and visitors alike, providing spaces to gather, socialize and enjoy all that northern Ontario has to offer.”
NOHFC-funded projects include:
- Dryden Recreation Centre – The City of Dryden is receiving $409,500 to make infrastructure improvements to the local ice arena that is home of the Dryden Ice Dogs. Upgrades include rebuilding and expanding dressing rooms, including converting three adjacent storage rooms into a modern, fully equipped space that meets current standards and user needs.
- Woodland Arena – The Municipality of Machin is receiving $500,000 for a new ice plant chiller for the Woodland Arena in Vermilion Bay – the only arena in the region. The more efficient chiller will reduce the arena’s energy costs and allow the recreational hub to continue hosting public skating, hockey games and other events.
- Machin Outdoor Rink – The Municipality of Machin is receiving $20,628 to upgrade the Eagle River outdoor rink by replacing the existing deck and viewing space with modern and safe infrastructure. Once complete, the outdoor facility will provide an efficient and enjoyable space for year-round sporting and community events.
“Local rinks and arenas provide the foundation for grassroots sport and recreation in communities across Ontario,” said Brian Saunderson, Minister of Sport. “These upgrades will help ensure that families and athletes have access to quality facilities where they can participate, develop their skills and enjoy the benefits of sport for years to come.”
“From modernizing the dressing rooms at the Dryden Recreation Centre, to upgrading the ice plant at the Woodland Arena and the outdoor rink deck in Eagle River, the NOHFC continues to deliver important investments in community infrastructure across the Northwest,” said Greg Rickford, Member of Provincial Parliament for Kenora – Rainy River. “These projects will enhance recreational opportunities, strengthen the community spaces that bring people together and ensure these facilities can serve residents for years to come.”
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 increased investment, 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 approved more than $1.1 billion for 9,011 projects in northern Ontario, leveraging more than $3.4 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 13,900 jobs.
Quotes
“The City of Dryden is extremely appreciative of NOHFC’s investment and support, as this important project would not have been possible without their contribution. Their partnership will allow us to modernize and expand an existing community dressing room, improving amenities, accessibility, and capacity while strengthening our ability to attract regional sporting events and provide enhanced recreation opportunities for our community.”
- Jason Boyer, Director of Community Services, City of Dryden
“Without funding programs like the NOHFC, we would not be able to keep our Woodland Arena operating. We are grateful for this opportunity to make the upgrades to our arena and keep it running for many years.”
– Gordon Griffiths, Mayor, Municipality of Machin
Additional Resources
The NOHFC, Northern Development Offices and Ontario Small Business Advisory Centres support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and government funding programs.
Media ContactReid Alexander Media Relations |
news.ontario.ca/mnedg/en Disponible en français |
