Statement from Minister Bellmore on investments in infrastructure that support the Arctic Winter Games

Minister of Community Services Cory Bellmore has issued the following statement:

“As the Arctic Winter Games approach, I would like to recognize the investments and efforts from the governments of Canada and Yukon that help provide modern and comfortable facilities for the Games.

“Hosting practices and competitions for hockey, figure skating, futsal, speed skating and wrestling, the Canada Games Centre was upgraded to create healthier and more comfortable spaces. The facility added hockey change room heat supply, heating, ventilation and air conditioning isolation from the pool to the field house, an air conditioning system in the gym and energy recovery ventilators in the field house and ice rink.

“The Mount McIntyre Recreation Centre was similarly upgraded, ensuring that the facility is safer, more accessible and energy efficient. Changes include replacing exterior siding, enhanced indoor accessibility, new energy efficient LED lighting, upgraded curling rink ventilation, a refreshed Grey Mountain Room, an improved fire alarm and new exit and emergency lighting.

“These changes to the Mount McIntyre Recreation Centre mean there are modern spaces for practices and competitions for curling and snowshoeing. The Grey Mountain Room will also be used for food services for the games.

“In 2024, the Government of Yukon completed local energy and snowmaking upgrades at Mount Sima, which will be used as an Arctic Winter Games venue for alpine skiing, snowboarding and Dene Games – snow snake. The project improved the ski hill’s electricity and snowmaking capacity by including new electrical, pumping and stream flow control measures, as well as converting snowmaking away from reliance on diesel power.

“In the fall of 2025, the governments of Canada and Yukon were pleased to welcome gymnasts and climbers into the new 3,700-plus square metre Whitehorse Gymnastics and Climbing Facility, which helps to meet increased demand for gymnastics and climbing amenities. This building will be used to host gymnastics and wrestling competitions for the games.

“One year after the joint announcement of funding for a new Biathlon Yukon facility, the governments of Canada and Yukon proudly celebrated the completion of the new Biathlon Yukon facility, which will host the ski and snowshoe biathlon. This new facility has improved accessibility, expanded spaces and upgraded water and heating systems.

“A total investment of $47.6 million from the Government of Canada’s Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program are represented in these five projects. In addition to the $7.1 million, the territorial government also provided project management services.

“Thank you to the Government of Canada for their support to develop and improve infrastructure in the Yukon. These investments enable the Government of Yukon to modernize infrastructure and position the territory as a welcoming destination for sporting events and major games.

“I look forward to seeing the Arctic Winter Games athletes curl, shoot, skate, ski, snowboard, snowshoe, play hockey, show us their futsal, gymnastics and snow snake skills in these spaces.”