Just over $8 million will be doled out in Sarnia and Camlachie to help make repairs or upgrades to recreational facilities.
The federal and provincial governments announced earlier this week $35 million in funding through the Investing in Canada infrastructure program.
About $1.4 million will be used to upgrade Jackson Pool on East Street. That will include construction of a new pool, as well as renovations to the change areas, splash area, washrooms, entrance and seating.
Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley said renewing facilities is a good thing to do.
"We're also looking at upgrades to Harry Turnbull Park and the skateboard area there, and to Cox Park and the splashpad there. That would include removing the fence so that it would be free for everyone. We're also looking at a major study which we'll be asking for public input in the months ahead on the development of a multi-use recreational facility here."
The Strangway centre also gets a piece of that infrastructure pie for a gym extension. Around $3.5 million will be spent on the hiring of architect and engineering services, a public consultation to determine design elements, and selection of the construction firm. The expansion will increase access to recreation and leisure options for seniors and adults over the age of 20.
The Sarnia YMCA Jerry McCaw Family Centre on Finch Drive receives just over $2.7 million. That will be used to replace all facility windows, and exterior doors, as well as balancing the flat roof. They'll also be installing new heat exchangers, heat pumps and building an automation system, emergency generators, and pool filters. The renovations there are expected to save money which will be reallocated towards programming for the community, including First Nations members and newcomers.
At the Camlachie Community Centre, $350,000 will go toward upgrading the washroom, including installing an access ramp, replacing the roof, installing and expanding an accessible parking area and walkways for the Library and Museum building.
Across Ontario, the Government of Canada has invested more than $14.1 billion in over 3,300 infrastructure projects.
-With files from Sue Storr