Government of Canada invests over $3.1 million in community infrastructure and tourism projects in Markham

News release

FedDev Ontario supports seven projects to drive community revitalization, support local tourism and economic growth 

August 24, 2022 – Markham, Ontario     

Markham’s infrastructure is vital to local businesses as its tourism sector brings thousands of visitors to the region each year. The Government of Canada is committed to supporting communities, like Markham, as they recover from the pandemic to position them for strong and resilient economic growth.

Today, the Honourable Helena Jaczek, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) and Member of Parliament for Markham–Stouffville, announced over $3.1 million for seven community infrastructure and tourism projects in Markham. With these investments, through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) and the Tourism Relief Fund (TRF), recipients will build and enhance community infrastructure, safely welcome back visitors and strengthen the local economy.

The Corporation of the City of Markham is receiving a non-repayable contribution of over $2.9 million for six community infrastructure projects. This includes support for installing new playground equipment at up to nine parks, installing a splash pad at Millennium Park, constructing off-road trails at Rouge Valley, and improving 2.85 kms of new sidewalks. The announcement was made at an event hosted by the City of Markham at Wismer Park, one of the locations of the Trees for Tomorrow initiative which will enhance 18 existing parks and valley lands through the addition of trees and saplings to welcome back visitors to the parks.

Additionally, a $200,000-investment was also announced for Destination Markham to create a strategic plan for Markham’s tourism sector including sports tourism, events and business travel.  

For more information, please see the backgrounder.

Quotes

“I’m happy to be in Markham to announce over $3.1 million in funding to help strengthen public infrastructure and enhance tourist attractions in Markham. This investment will protect local jobs in our region and drive resilient economic growth. Our government will continue to make investments that benefit our communities and local economies.”
– The Honourable Helena Jaczek, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario and Member of Parliament for Markham-Stouffville

“Today is a great day for the City of Markham as our Government is investing in seven community infrastructure and tourism projects to help revitalize existing spaces, like our parks and trails, that are vital for the tourists and residents of this region.”
– Paul Chiang, Member of Parliament for Markham–Unionville 

“We are so grateful for this federal support for our community infrastructure and tourism sector in the City of Markham. These enhancements throughout our city will have a great impact on our local economy and improve our overall quality of life. Now more than ever our residents of all ages appreciate outdoor amenities and natural open spaces.”
– His Worship Frank Scarpitti, Mayor of the City of Markham

“Sports tourism, events, business travel and conferences are a catalyst for growth to Markham's Visitor Economy. The funding granted to DMC by FedDev Ontario will support the capacity and guide our organization through the development and implementation of Destination Markham's first strategic tourism master plan, allowing the City of Markham to build a comprehensive roadmap for success."
– Shafik Jiwani, Secretary of the Destination Markham Corporation (DMC) Board of Directors

Quick facts

  • The City of Markham is home to award-winning community planning and services and a strong local economy. 

  • Destination Markham is a leader for Markham’s tourism sector, promoting the city as a remarkable destination for visitors including sport and festival attendees, meeting and conference delegates and business travellers. 

  • With a national investment of $500 million over two years, the Canada Community Revitalization Fund supports projects that build new community infrastructure and revitalize existing assets, bring people back to public spaces safely and stimulate local economies. This includes $139 million for projects in southern Ontario, delivered by FedDev Ontario. 

  • The Government of Canada’s $500-million Tourism Relief Fund is helping tourism-oriented businesses and organizations recover from the pandemic and prepare for future growth, with a minimum of $50 million of the Fund allocated to supporting Indigenous-led projects or Indigenous-focused projects. FedDev Ontario is delivering nearly $120 million of the Tourism Relief Fund across southern Ontario.   

  • Since 2015, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario, has invested over $26 million in more than 60 projects in the Markham region, creating over 300 jobs and maintaining over 600 jobs. 

Related products

Associated links

Contacts

Monica Granados
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
monica.granados@feddevontario.gc.ca

Media Relations
FedDev Ontario
feddevontariomediarelations-relationsmedias@feddevontario.gc.ca

Stay Connected

Website: www.FedDevOntario.gc.ca

Page details

Date modified: