Government of Canada support will upgrade existing facilities and help attract visitors to Northwestern Ontario
July 28, 2022 - Thunder Bay, ON
The Government of Canada recognizes that tourism is an important driver of northern economies, and that the tourism industry has been impacted by the pandemic. Investments in the tourism industry have not only helped keep businesses and organizations open, but are helping them remain competitive, strong, and growing.
Today, Marcus Powlowski, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay-Rainy River, announced a FedNor investment of $500,000 in the City of Thunder Bay, to modernize and improve the Fort William Stadium and Legion Track. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor.
The City of Thunder Bay will redevelop the facility's 400 metre track and International Federation of Association Football (FIFA)-sized field, with the installation of a new turf system and pad. Existing asphalt will be replaced with two layers of impermeable levelled rubber asphalt track surface. Additionally, the score board and structure will be replaced with a modern score board with audio and visual capabilities.
Fort William Stadium and Legion Track is the only facility of its kind in Northwestern Ontario. The revitalized facility will be capable of hosting potential future events such as provincial and national sports events, as well as concerts and festivals. The stadium will continue to be available for use by - charity groups, elementary and high school sports, minor league sports, and residents. This project is anticipated to create five construction jobs.
The investment announced today is provided through the Northern Ontario Development Program (NODP)'s Tourism Relief Fund (TRF), which supports tourism businesses and organizations to adapt their operations to meet public health requirements while investing in products and services to facilitate their future growth.
