The federal government is investing $1.5 million for six initiatives in Lambton county, aimed at boosting tourism and community infrastructure.
The largest was for $699,000 to improve the YMCA Community Centre in Petrolia, enhancing the fitness and wellness hub for residents of Petrolia and its surrounding communities.
Petrolia also received just over $116,000 to extend the Victoria Playhouse season from three to six weeks and add digital screens.
Mayor Brad Loosley said they are extremely grateful for this financial support to assist with tourism and recreation in the town.
"The importance of these two areas in our municipality have been underscored during the COVID-19 pandemic and the recovery and enhancement will provide amazing recreational amenities and increased tourism to our community. We thank you very much for your support and vision," said Loosley.
The Kiwanis Club of Forest was given $47,459 in funding to support interior and exterior improvements at the historic Kineto Theatre, and $123,750 will be put toward improvements at the Arkona Community Centre.
The community centre will be adding shaded seating areas and resurfacing the basketball court, which will transform the existing court into a versatile area that also includes a pickleball court.
Sarnia's Bluewater Borderfest got a $100,000 boost to enhance the event experience and extend its annual summer kick-off music festival.
A total of $450,000 to improve and expand the skate park at Sarnia's Tecumseh Park was previously announced.
The funds come from the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) and Tourism Relief Fund (TRF) under FedDev Ontario.