GUELPH, Ont. —The Ontario government is committing $11 million to upgrade recreation infrastructure in Guelph, funding two major projects aimed at protecting jobs, stimulating the local economy and providing long-term community benefits.
The investment includes $10 million for the construction of the South End Community Centre and $1 million for the rehabilitation of the Lyon Outdoor Pool. The projects are supported through the $200 million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF), a provincewide program designed to modernize facilities and strengthen access to active, healthy living across Ontario.
Provincial Commitment to Communities
Neil Lumsden, Ontario’s Minister of Sport, said the funding demonstrates the government’s focus on both affordability and economic resilience.
“At a time when Ontario families are facing rising costs due to tariffs, our government is proud to support projects that deliver better services for communities while creating more opportunities for kids, seniors and young people,” said Lumsden. “With investments in infrastructure like this, we are protecting Ontario jobs, strengthening our communities and building a more resilient and self-reliant economy.”
The CSRIF program operates under two streams: repairing and rehabilitating existing facilities, and building new or transformative recreation infrastructure. It forms part of Ontario’s broader $200 billion infrastructure agenda, which also includes highways, hospitals, transit and schools.
South End Community Centre: A Multi-Purpose Hub
The majority of the funding will go toward Guelph’s long-anticipated South End Community Centre, a 160,000-square-foot facility designed to be a full-service hub for sport and recreation.
Once complete, the centre will include twin ice pads, a double gymnasium, a full aquatic centre with both a lap pool and a teaching pool, as well as multi-purpose rooms and flexible community spaces. The facility will operate seven days a week, hosting a wide range of programs to encourage physical activity and community engagement.
“This is a transformative project for Guelph,” said Mayor Cam Guthrie. “These two grants are incredible news for Guelph, and mean our residents will have access to world-class recreation facilities for generations to come. On behalf of the city, we extend our thanks to the provincial government. With so many affordability pressures affecting Guelph residents, these grants are coming at the perfect time.”
Revitalizing the Lyon Outdoor Pool
The province’s additional $1 million investment will focus on the Lyon Outdoor Pool Rehabilitation Project, addressing critical upgrades to extend the life of the aging facility.
The improvements will ensure continued access to outdoor aquatic programs and preserve the pool as a safe, reliable option for summer recreation.
“Lyon Pool is a one-of-a-kind experience for Guelph users and the funding support will enable the pool to continue as a valuable community asset for all neighbours,” said Brendan Johnson, Executive Director of the Guelph Neighbourhood Support Coalition.
Strong Endorsements from Local Stakeholders
Community organizations have welcomed the funding, stressing the long-term benefits of accessible recreation infrastructure.
“The Guelph Sports Council is thrilled with City of Guelph’s receipt of this grant from the Ontario government for the South End Community Centre,” said Phill McFadden, Chair of the Guelph Sports Council. “This vital investment will expand access to recreational opportunities and foster community well-being through sport and active living. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this facility will have on residents of all ages.”
Economic and Social Impact
According to the province, sport contributes more than $7.5 billion annually to Ontario’s economy, generating tens of thousands of jobs in communities across the province. Each year, Ontario also invests $32 million in community recreation programs, including Ontario’s After School Program, the Inclusive Grassroots Recreation program and the Ontario Amateur Sport Fund.
Officials argue that investments in facilities like those in Guelph not only generate construction and maintenance jobs but also provide long-term returns in community health, youth engagement and economic development.
Looking Ahead
As work begins on the South End Community Centre and the Lyon Outdoor Pool, local leaders say the projects will deliver meaningful benefits well beyond the city. The facilities are expected to draw visitors from neighbouring municipalities, broaden program offerings and strengthen the city’s position as a hub for recreation and sport in southwestern Ontario.
With provincial support in place, Guelph’s recreation landscape is set for a major transformation, promising enhanced services, stronger community ties and sustained economic growth.
