Two First Nation communities on the north shore of Lake Superior are contributing a combined $1.5 million toward the construction of Marathon’s Active Living Centre.
Biigtigong Nishnaabeg (formerly Pic River) is contributing $1 million and Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg (formerly Pic Mobert) is providing $500,000 for the town’s proposed recreational facility, according to an Oct. 21 news release.
The Active Living Centre is part of the redevelopment of the formerly contaminated Marathon Pulp mill site, which closed in 2009. Construction starts next year on the centre on a 3.6-hectare patch of waterfront land where wood chips were once piled.
The 100,000-square-foot building will house an arena, two swimming pools, a seniors centre, bowling and sports courts, a community theatre, meeting and conference space, interpretation and cultural displays, concession and public spaces, and an outdoor play and recreation area.
The construction cost is estimated at $65 million. The municipality will be applying to federal and provincial funding programs for $50 million. The remainder of the cost will be covered by the municipality and private contributions.
The project will be tendered in early 2025 with construction expected to begin in the spring of 2025. The grand opening is early 2028.
In the big picture, the Town of Marathon is making a number of housing, social, commercial and industrial upgrades, including plans for a commercial port, as part of a mining-fuelled boom in the area.
“Biigtigong Nishnaabeg are pleased to work collaboratively with Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg and the Town of Marathon to see the Active Living Centre become a reality so that the people in all three communities can enjoy the benefits of a healthy lifestyle,” said Chief Duncan Michano of Biigtigong Nishnaabeg in a statement.
“As a small First Nation, we rely on our neighbouring communities for essential supplies and services such as health care, education, and consumer products,” added Chief Louis Kwissiwa of Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg in a statement. “Our families and children look forward to the wellness and recreation programming that the Active Living Centre will provide to our communities in the region.”
“This once-in-a-lifetime community investment will provide a valuable space for recreation, health, and happiness,” said Marathon Mayor Rick Dumas. “It will also serve as a cultural exchange where members of our partner First Nations and residents of Marathon can come together, share, and celebrate our rich heritages and mutual respect.”
