FedNor Allocates $39 Million for Northern Ontario Facility Repairs

The Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario is dedicating $39 million to help northern Ontario communities build, repair and upgrade local facilities, Cbc reported. The allocation comes from the federal government's $51 billion Build Communities Strong Fund and targets the Local Impact stream, with distribution scheduled across four years.

Thunder Bay-Superior North MP Patty Hajdu, the minister responsible for FedNor, made the announcement Tuesday at the Canada Games Complex in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

Hajdu described the complex as an older building that still has many years of life but needs maintenance to keep components functioning. She noted that many buildings across northern Ontario were constructed around the same time and now face aging infrastructure challenges that hold significance for communities.

Hajdu said the funding supports not-for-profit organizations and municipalities that often struggle with fiscal capacity to maintain such buildings.

She added that the initiative aims to sustain construction activity in northern Ontario while creating work for Red Seal trades workers through the Team Canada Strong plan. Jessy Bogacki, acting supervisor of the Canada Games Complex and program supervisor of Adult Fitness, Wellness and Inclusion Services, said maintaining community hubs remains super important for residents over many years.

Bogacki noted that families grow up at the facility and can remain users for a lifetime.

Eligible groups can apply online for the funding through FedNor. Hajdu stated that FedNor will maintain an ongoing intake process and work with applicants on project plans, timing and specific needs.