Sudbury, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor

Shared public spaces such as Kivi Park are at the heart of communities across Canada. They draw in residents and visitors alike, supporting local businesses and jobs. In Sudbury, as in so many places across Canada, these outdoor spaces have seen a significant increase in use as Canadians took precautions to stay safe from COVID-19.

The Government of Canada recognizes that Canadian cities and towns flourish when they have community public spaces to promote social interaction and physical activity, and provide access to recreational programs and facilities. These amenities are integral to the overall well-being of individuals, families and communities. Our economic recovery is closely linked to the vitality of our local communities and their shared spaces.

Today Marc G. Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Official Languages, accompanied by Viviane Lapointe, Member of Parliament for Sudbury, announced an investment of $444,891 through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) for Kivi Park Community Foundation. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, and Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay–Superior North.

The Kivi Park Community Foundation is using the FedNor funding to purchase and install solar lighting in its parking lot and along a 3.5-kilometre section of its four-season, multi-use trail system. The new lighting will enhance the user experience by allowing residents, athletes and tourists to access Kivi Park at various hours in a safe environment. Kivi Park is Sudbury's largest park featuring 55 kilometres of trails, a 1.3-kilometre skating path, two large playgrounds, a soccer field, a basketball court, ice rink and a water sports complex at Crowley Lake. The park is an inclusive community space that encourages outdoor sports and recreation.

The CCRF was launched in June 2021. The Fund provides $500 million over two years to Canada’s regional development agencies to invest in shared and inclusive public spaces. As public health restrictions ease, the Government of Canada remains committed to investing in shared spaces to make them safer, greener and more accessible. This, in turn, will stimulate local economies, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for Canadians.

Quotes

“This initiative demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to support economic development in communities of every size, in every region. We have helped put small and medium-sized businesses on the road to recovery. Now it’s time to invest in the shared public spaces that will safely bring people together and help communities grow and thrive well into the future." - The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, and Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay–Superior North

 “This investment in lighting will increase participation in outdoor recreation. Not only will it benefit the physical and mental health of community members, it will also create a safe community gathering place during and after COVID-19 as we move forward to build a better Canada for everyone.” - Marc G. Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Official Languages

 “We are fortunate here in Northern Ontario to have access to an abundance of outdoor recreational spaces which people turned to in great numbers during the pandemic. Today’s investment to enhance the user experience at Kivi Park is essential to building a thriving community, vibrant local economy and a culturally rich public gathering space.” - Viviane Lapointe, Member of Parliament for Sudbury

“The COVID-19 pandemic revealed the importance of safe and shared open outdoor spaces within communities. During the 2020 winter season at Kivi Park, the number of people who used our facilities reached a new record high. Today’s announcement will enable us to expand our hours to meet the increased demand.” - Kerry Lamarche, Executive Director, Kivi Park Community Foundation