Government of Canada funds project in North Dumfries through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Program

North Dumfries, Ontario - Today, Bryan May, Member of Parliament for Cambridge and North Dumfries, on behalf of Canada’s Minister for Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada, Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, announced an investment of $5,000,000 for North Dumfries’ Net Zero Arena Project. Funding was awarded through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program.

The Township of North Dumfries’ exciting project to construct a new state-of-the-art ice arena will provide a modern, accessible, and energy-efficient space for
ice sports and community events. The project includes a full-sized ice rink, seating for spectators, locker rooms, and additional multipurpose rooms for community use.

The arena will create a hub for local sports teams, recreational leagues, and public skating, while fostering a sense of community and promoting healthy, active lifestyles, serving residents of all ages, from young children learning to skate to seniors participating in recreational activities.

By incorporating sustainable building practices and energy-efficient technologies, the new ice arena will minimize the environmental impact and ensure long-term operational cost savings. This project will not only enhance the quality of life for North Dumfries residents, but also attract visitors and events, boosting the local economy and overall community spirit.

Quick facts

• The Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program (GICB) was created in support of Canada’s Strengthened Climate Plan: A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy. It supports the Plan’s first pillar by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing energy efficiency, and helping develop higher resilience to climate change.
• The program launched in 2021 with an initial investment of $1.5 billion over five years towards green and accessible retrofits, repairs or upgrades.
• Budget 2024 announced an additional $500 million to support more projects through GICB until 2029.
• At least 10 percent of funding is allocated to projects serving First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, including Indigenous populations in urban centres.
• Project funding is subject to the negotiation and signing of a contribution agreement between the Government of Canada and the recipient.

Federal funding is conditional on fulfilling all requirements related to consultation with Indigenous communities and environmental assessment obligations.

Related document
Federal government to fund more community buildings across the country - Canada.ca

Associated links
Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada - Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Program

For media enquiries, please contact:
Dominic Casto - Event Director and Community Outreach
Office of Bryan May
519-624-7440
bryan.may@parl.gc.ca