Skiiers in Dryden can celebrate a $200,000 funding commitment from the province, which aims to make some major improvements to the hill and chalet for year-round entertainment.
Kenora – Rainy River MPP, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and Minister of Northern Development, Greg Rickford, announced $200,000 in funding to the hill through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation earlier this week, aimed to improve the quality of life for Dryden residents and tourists.
“Our government is focused on investing in communities and creating vibrant recreational facilities that promote health and improve wellness,” said Rickford. “The Dryden Ski Club provides inclusive activities and programming for all ages and abilities, and today’s investment will only enhance the club’s offerings.”
The club says they’ll be using the funding to refurbish the chalet with an expanded outdoor patio, new windows and LED lighting, upgraded washrooms, a speaker system and new interior furnishings. The club adds the new chalet will be a valuable venue rental opportunity in the off-season.
Upgrades are also scheduled for the hill itself. Planned work includes new LED lighting to improve night skiing and further landscaping of the hill’s runs.
“The Dryden Ski Club is incredibly grateful for the funding received through the NOHFC,” said Bev Churchill, President of the Dryden Ski Club. “We have seen unprecedented growth in membership and use over the past three years, particularly in the number of youths who use our facilities. Without this support from the Ontario government, we would not be able to modernize and grow.”
The Dryden Ski Club is a non-profit organization that operates the ski hill, chalet and trails over the winter, as well as 20 km of hiking and biking trails in the spring, summer and fall.