North Bay, Ontario, April 23, 2021—Residents in North Bay, Powassan and Callander will all see improvements to some recreational and cultural activities thanks to an Infrastructure Investment announced on Friday.
The Honourable Anthony Rota, Member of Parliament for Nipissing-Timiskaming says, “This is all about improving some of the many amenities that people living in Nipising-Timiskaming can enjoy. Investing in infrastructure is key to improving the quality of life we have in northern Ontario. With this funding residents in our communities will see improved safety and better access in some of their favourite recreational activities.”
The Government of Canada is investing $242,500 to support the Camp Tillicum Renewal Project. The project includes replacing the existing community hall with a new accessible multi-purpose facility, and improving the campgrounds, such as updating the bathroom facilities, removing safety hazards, and clearly labelling the buildings. This project will allow Camp Tillicum to continue providing important recreational programs and services to hundreds of children in the North Bay area while improving its grounds to be more accessible and welcoming for future campers.
“With this funding from Canada and from Ontario, North Bay Rotary’s Camp Tillicum will be able to start construction on the Redpath Youth Centre, as the centre piece of a refurbished waterfront recreational facility," says Bob Cunningham, President of the Camp Tillicum Board.
"The Camp’s partnership with the YMCA of Northeastern Ontario (North Bay branch) is strengthened with the Y getting ready to expand beyond day camps to providing family recreation, swimming lessons and theme camps. I am very grateful to the community for the funds that have already been donated or pledged. Major donors include Redpath, the Stockfish family and the Thomson family and were crucial in raising the profile of the project. The hard work over many years by Rotarians has been crucial to the success of the Camp.”
$131,403 in funding will also support improvements to the Near North Trail Association’s snowmobile trail network. The project will replace decking from on bridges, install new railings and 14 culverts, and include the purchase of a new snow machine, trailer and drag. This work will increase trail safety and the user experience for snowmobilers along the 1,900-kilometre trail system, and further support the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs.
"The Near North Trail Association and its 10 volunteer clubs operate 1900 km of trails within OFSC District 11, stretching from Kearney to Martin River and Mattawa to French River. Funding announced today by the Governments of Canada and Ontario will ensure the safe passage of snowmobilers by replacing 2 bridges and refurbishing 3, along with the purchase of new equipment necessary for trail improvements," says John Miller, President and Governor of the Near North Trail Association.
"This funding will create trail sustainability for years to come, provide a safe and enjoyable experience for ridership while generating significant economic impact in the local communities of the Near North Trail Association District.”
Finally, $75,378 will be invested to provide upgrades to the Trout Creek Community Centre in Powassan. This will improve the facility’s accessibility and allow more residents to enjoy recreational activities. The scope of work includes the construction of an accessible ramp, installation of hands-free hardware and railings, purchase of four sets of public accessible and movable bleachers for community events, and installation of accessible playground equipment.
“The Municipality of Powassan is very thankful for the funding we are receiving today," says His Worship Peter McIsaac, Mayor of the Town of Powassan. "The rehabilitation of the accessibility ramp at the Trout Creek Community Centre will ensure that our Recreation Center is accessible and utilized to its potential. The accessible playground equipment provides safe and inclusive play opportunities for children. The portable accessible bleachers will encourage participation in events and activities by all community members.”
Rota says, “Infrastructure investments are also key to creating jobs, supporting a strong economy, and building greener, more resilient communities.”
The Government of Canada is investing $449,281 in total toward these projects, through the Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada plan, with the Government of Ontario providing $374,265. The Rotary Club of North Bay is contributing $161,687, the Near North Trail Association is investing $87,711 and the Municipality of Powassan is providing $50,258 towards their respective projects.
Associated links
Government of Canada News Release
Watch a replay of the announcement
April 23rd, 2021 North Bay, Callander, Powassan infrastructure investment
Federal infrastructure investments in Ontario
https://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/prog-proj-on-eng.html
Investing in Canada Plan Project Map
http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/gmap-gcarte/index-eng.html
Ontario Builds Project Map: https://www.ontario.ca/page/building-ontario
