Funding Announcement – GICB Canada

Today, December 8, 2022, Mark Gerretsen, Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Member of Parliament for Kingston and the Islands and His Worship Jim Hegadorn, Mayor of Loyalist Township, announced more than $16.5 million in funding to retrofit the W.J. Henderson Recreation Centre in Loyalist Township. 

"Quality community and recreational infrastructure is vital to community well-being and development. Today's important announcement will provide residents in Loyalist with an accessible, modern and green facility they can enjoy for years to com."  - Mark Gerretson, MP for Kingston and the Islands 

The Government of Canada is investing over $16.5 million in this project through Infrastructure Canada’s Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program (GICB).

Funding will support upgrades to the W.J. Henderson Recreation Centre to improve the safety, accessibility, and environmental performance of the facility. Work will include replacing the aquatics facility, improving accessibility and mechanical systems, renovating the arena and library, and installing energy-saving components. These improvements are expected to reduce the facility's energy consumption by an estimated 38.6% and greenhouse gas emissions by 207 tonnes annually. An additional significant aspect of this retrofit is to create a Legacy space to deliver education, and spread awareness about Indigenous history and the path towards reconciliation. 

Once complete, this community hub will provide residents with a state-of-the-art facility and recreation programs and services that encourage inclusivity, fun, health and well-being, and accessibility for all ages and abilities.