August 27, 2025

Funding will support creation of accessible outdoor community spaces

PARRY SOUND — The Ontario government is investing $500,000 through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to support the revitalization of outdoor playgrounds and fitness stations in Parry Sound. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, this funding is building a stronger, healthier and more self-reliant community by enabling residents and visitors to stay active and connected in accessible public spaces.

“This investment is an example of our government’s plan to protect Ontario communities. It’s not just about new swings and slides; it’s about improving the quality of life for families, attracting new residents and helping our small towns thrive,” said Graydon Smith, MPP for Parry Sound-Muskoka. “By upgrading these parks, we’re providing a modern, safe space for local children and adults to be active and connect with their peers.”

The Town of Parry Sound is receiving NOHFC funding to revamp five local public outdoor playgrounds, as well as three public outdoor fitness stations along the Rotary and Algonquin Regiment Fitness Trail. Key activities include disassembling existing playground and fitness station structures, site preparations, purchasing new playground and fitness station equipment, installing the equipment and laying accessible rubber ground surfacing. This project will create safe, inviting and inclusive settings where residents and visitors can play and exercise.

“The new playgrounds have not only rejuvenated our parks but have also sparked a renewed sense of community spirit and family engagement. Our children deserve modern and safe places to play, and we have delivered just that,” said Jamie McGarvey, Mayor, Town of Parry Sound. “The Playground Revitalization Program not only breathes new life into our parks but also reflects the town’s proactive approach in implementing the recommendations outlined in the Town of Parry Sound Culture, Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Visit our parks today and join us in celebrating this monumental achievement in Parry Sound.”

“The Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation and the Town of Parry Sound invested in these playgrounds to reinvigorate unstructured outdoor play, kids taking calculated risks and having fun,” said April McNamara, Manager of Parks and Recreation, Town of Parry Sound. “The Playground Revitalization Program was a significant accomplishment, with five playgrounds completed in just seven weeks. That’s awesome! These enhancements set the foundation for long-lasting joy and vibrant community interactions. Get outside and play, Parry Sound!”

“By supporting the refurbishment of these eight public outdoor spaces, we are creating new opportunities for the residents of Parry Sound and surrounding communities, as well as visitors to the area, to get outside, have fun and be active while connecting with others,” said George Pirie, Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth. “Our government’s NOHFC funding continues to support the development of strong, healthy and vibrant communities across Northern Ontario.”

Announced in June 2025, the Ontario government is refocusing the NOHFC to prioritize investments 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, securing new opportunities and ensuring the North remains a leader in Ontario’s economy. This new direction is in addition to the province’s recently announced investment of an additional $30 million over the next 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 $905 million in 7,309 projects in Northern Ontario, leveraging more than $2.8 billion in investment and creating or sustaining over 11,210 jobs.

Additional Resources

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