This is a joint news release with the City of Dawson and Tr'ondëk Hwëchin First Nation.
The Government of Yukon, City of Dawson and Tr'ondëk Hwëchin First Nation are pleased to confirm today that plans for a new recreation centre in the community are well underway.
A feasibility study for the project was completed last year, with Dawson City Council proposing the building site at the base of the Dome Road on the corner of the North Klondike Highway.
The new recreation centre is now in the preliminary design stage. Construction is anticipated to start in 2024 and the total cost is expected to be around $60 million. The Government of Yukon is committed to ensuring this project proceeds and will explore federal funding opportunities to help offset the cost of the new facility.
We are pleased to affirm our commitment to a new recreation centre in Dawson. We have long heard from the Yukoners in Dawson about the need for a new facility and I know that it will play a vital role in the health and well-being of Yukoners. We look forward to working closely with the Tr'ondëk Hwëchin First Nation and the City of Dawson to plan, design and build this new facility that will be an important gathering place in the community for many years to come.
Community Services Minister Richard Mostyn
It is great to see progress made on a new recreation centre for Dawson. Recreational facilities play a critical role in building stronger, more inclusive communities while providing an outlet for youth to develop new skills and have positive experiences. I look forward to continuing to work with the City of Dawson and the Tr'ondëk Hwëchin First Nation to build this facility that will serve Yukoners in Dawson for years to come.
Premier and MLA for Klondike Sandy Silver
Year-round recreational facilities are essential to healthy living in the North. The City of Dawson welcomes the increased funding commitment from the Yukon Government and will continue to work with our partners at the Territorial and First Nation level in the planning of a complex that can meet and adapt to the needs of our growing community.
City of Dawson Mayor Bill Kendrick
For over a decade, the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in have advocated for a new recreation centre. We’re pleased the Yukon government has made another promise for committed funding, and we look forward to working with Yukon and the municipality to see this project through. The recreation centre we have now is not in the safest condition, and there are limitations to its use. Our community is growing and is deserving of year-round facilities. Having positive activity in the community is important for our people today and in the future.
Tr'ondëk Hwëchin First Nation Chief Roberta Joseph
The new Dawson recreation centre is expected to include a skating rink, curling rink, gymnasium, indoor playground, concession and office space.
The Yukon government earmarked up to $25.5 million toward the new Dawson recreation centre in its current five-year capital plan. Additional funding will be allocated once the final project budget is confirmed.
Renée Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca
Echo Ross
Communications, Community Services
867-332-1237
echo.ross@yukon.ca
Paul Robitaille
Parks and Recreation Manager, City of Dawson
867-993-7400 ext 204
recmanager@cityofdawson.ca