ATIKOKAN – Today, MPP Bill Mauro was in Atikokan to announce an investment of $1,000,000 from the province’s Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) to the Town of Atikokan. This funding will assist with the transition of the current Municipal Swimming Pool and Community Arena into a re-vamped Multi-purpose Recreation and Wellness Complex.
“Ontario is building safe, reliable infrastructure to help create jobs and ensure a bright future for the province. Since April, the province has announced support for more than 200 projects that will keep people and goods moving, strengthen the economy, connect communities and improve quality of life,” stated a spokesperson for the Ontario Government.
As a result of this investment Atikokan will enjoy a broader range of activities and people with disabilities will benefit from improved accessibility at the new Complex, slated to begin construction in the spring of 2016. It will also provide opportunities for entrepreneurs to rent space (internet café/fitness centre) and increase the variety of sporting events, competitions, trade shows, entertainment and First Nations gatherings.
“With this one-million dollar investment, Atikokan residents and visitors will now be able to enjoy an increase in recreational activities while building a healthier, stronger community. I am looking forward to seeing all the exciting opportunities coming from the new Multi-purpose Recreation and Wellness Complex,” stated Minister Mauro.
“By investing in this project, we’re building Atikokan’s capacity to host events that will boost tourism and support the local economy. I am pleased that our government continues to support infrastructure projects which build Ontario up and spur economic growth throughout the North,” stated Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development and Mines and Chair of the NOHFC.
“The revamped Multi–purpose Recreation and Wellness Complex will continue to be the hub of physical activities for Atikokan citizens for many, many more years and Atikokan is most thankful for this financial contribution from the NOHFC. This is a great start for an upgrading process that we hope will begin early in the spring of 2016. As always we appreciate the support to our community by the provincial government, especially Ministers Bill Mauro and Michael Gravelle as well as the entire NOHFC Board and staff. Without their support, Atikokan would not be able to move forward on this important initiative,” shared Dennis Brown, Mayor of Atikokan.