The Government of Canada is Building Canada Strong through sport. From playground to podium, we are investing in communities, supporting athletes and uniting Canadians, because sport is the ultimate nation builder.
Today, through the Build Communities Strong Fund, the Honourable Adam van Koeverden, Secretary of State (Sport) announced a significant federal investment of up to $33.6 million in key sport infrastructure projects.
In Calgary, we will support the rehabilitation and modernization of the Olympic Oval at the University of Calgary campus, a legendary facility that hosted the 1988 Olympic Winter Games. Together with the Government of Alberta's matching investment, we will ensure the long-term operation and accessibility of the high-performance speed skating rink, known as the fastest ice in the world and the proud home of many Olympic medalists, medals and countless world records.
Federal funding will also support upgrades to the WinSport halfpipe in Calgary, another legacy venue from the 1988 Olympic Winter Games, ensuring it meets world-class training standards and can host more international events.
In Kananaskis, the Government of Canada's investment will increase snowmaking capacity and update security measures at the Nakiska National Ski Cross Training Centre.
All three projects will create more opportunities for Canadians to play, train, and proudly wear the maple leaf on the world stage, while strengthening our ability to host major sporting events and continuing to prove that Canada is the best sport-hosting nation. These investments will bring Canadians together and inspire the next generation.
The Build Communities Strong Fund, is a $51 billion Government of Canada initiative supporting infrastructure projects across the country that advance economic prosperity, housing, sport and recreation, education, health, transit, and climate adaptation.
Secretary of State van Koeverden also highlighted new support for Canada's athletes by expanding the Athlete Assistance Program (AAP) by $3 million annually, helping more athletes focus on their performance and pursuit of excellence.
Today's announcements build on the Government of Canada's generational investment of $1 billion to make sure we continue hosting world-class events like the FIFA World Cup 2026™, while expanding access to sport, upgrading stadiums, fields and community recreation facilities, and helping athletes succeed. A country that comes together through sport is a country united.
