VIDEO: Funding of $222,202 Announced by Province for YMCA of Eastern Ontario for Upgrade to Brockville Y’s Women’s and Family Changerooms

Brockville — The YMCA of Eastern Ontario is receiving funding of $222,202 from the Ontario Government’s Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund to support facility renovations.

The funding will go towards the renovation of the Women’s and Family change rooms at the Brockville YMCA.

Video news story below:

The announcement was made on Monday by Steve Clark, MPP for Leeds Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes, on behalf of Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport at the Brockville Y.

“Since Confederation, the Brockville YMCA has played a vital role in promoting a healthier, more inclusive community in the city and our region,” said MPP Clark. “As MPP, I value the YMCA of Eastern Ontario’s work, and I’m pleased our government is making this investment to ensure the facility remains a safe, modern, and welcoming space for people of all ages.”

The funding will assist the YMCA with renovations to changerooms to enhance accessibility and create a safe space that meets current building codes, allowing people of all abilities access.

“We appreciate the province has recognized the value and positive impact that this project will have on our community,” said Rob Adams, CEO of the YMCA of Eastern Ontario. “With MPP Clark acting as a champion and advocate, this investment is now being brought to life, allowing the YMCA to meet the needs of our growing and diverse community. The YMCA is grateful for MPP Clark’s level of engagement.”

Renovations will include new showers, tiles, washrooms, and lockers, replacing infrastructure that is long overdue for repair.

“These changerooms are used by everyone from young families to older adults, and by many local partner agencies,” Adams added. “Investing in these spaces helps us make sure they’re safe, accessible, and comfortable for all who rely on the Y.”

The upgrades will significantly enhance accessibility throughout the spaces, ensuring a more inclusive environment for everyone. As part of this project, the current Family Changeroom will be transformed into a modern Universal Changeroom to better serve the diverse needs of individuals and families.

This funding adds momentum to the YMCA’s capital investments, which also include a significant gymnasium expansion currently underway at the Brockville location.

Work is scheduled to begin later this year, with efforts made to minimize disruption to member access during construction.

Mayor of Brockville Matt Wren also expressed his support for the project: “This renovation is about more than infrastructure, it’s about ensuring everyone in our community feels welcome and included,” said Mayor Wren. “The YMCA continues to be a place where people of all ages and abilities can come together, connect, and thrive.”

The funding is part of Ontario’s $200 million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF), a province-wide initiative that helps communities revitalize local facilities, grow the economy and promote active, healthy living across Ontario.