DRYDEN – The Ontario government is providing $239,216 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to the City of Dryden to renovate the Dryden Recreation Centre. This investment will help retrofit and protect the recreation centre, extending its useful life and enhancing patron health and safety.

“With the help of the NOHFC, our government is proud to invest in the revitalization of the Dryden Recreation Centre, underscoring our commitment to strengthening community assets across the Northwest,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development and MPP for Kenora-Rainy River. “Our partnership with the City of Dryden has supported enhancements inside and outside the facility, ensuring it remains a vibrant hub for families and community members of all ages all year round.”

The City of Dryden will use NOHFC funding to install dehumidifiers and emergency exits, update heating and circulation systems, and lay skate-resistant flooring in communal spaces. This is the final phase of Dryden’s infrastructure plan to address major mechanical issues and expand the facility.

“We are thankful for the support from NOHFC through the Community Enhancement Program for our project, which will help address several deficiencies and extend the life of our beloved community recreation complex,” said Jack Harrison, Mayor of Dryden. “This investment preserves the facility for future generations while keeping it accessible and appealing to all members of our community, thereby increasing participation and ensuring it remains inclusive and affordable.”

The NOHFC fosters economic growth, job creation, and workforce development throughout the North, benefiting communities of all sizes, both rural and urban, including Indigenous communities. Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $835 million in 6,713 projects in Northern Ontario, leveraging more than $2.4 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 10,380 jobs.

Quick Facts

• The Ontario government launched new and improved NOHFC programs that support more projects in rural northern communities and make it easier for more people and businesses to apply. The programs target existing and emerging markets, provide more work opportunities for Indigenous people, and address the skilled labour shortage in the North.
• The NOHFC’s Community Enhancement Program builds strong and resilient northern communities through targeted investments in critical infrastructure.

Additional Resources

• The NOHFC, Northern Development Offices and Small Business Enterprise Centres are available to support northern communities, businesses and other stakeholders in identifying economic development opportunities and assist in accessing government funding programs.

Media Contacts

Curtis Lindsay, Minister’s Office — 437-240-7317 — curtis.lindsay@ontario.ca

Media Desk, Communications Branch — mediadesk.ndm@ontario.ca