The City of Ottawa held an event earlier this week at the Jim Durrell Recreation Centre to express gratitude for the support provided by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming (OLG) Corporation. OLG annually donates more than $5.5m to community projects throughout Ottawa, with the renovation of the facility being one of the projects this year.

OLG’s funds come from revenue from slots and table games at the Rideau Carleton Casino, the future home of Hard Rock Ottawa. The funds are placed into the city’s general revenue account and are then used to invest in initiatives that benefit Ottawa residents.

The Senior Municipal Relations Manager at OLG, Kathleen Devine, summed it up: “When you play at an Ontario casino, you play for Ontario”.

A portion of the funding from April 2022 to March 2023 was invested in recreation infrastructure projects, such as playgrounds, community centres, and arenas. 

Enhancements to city facilities for cultural services, long-term care, and Ottawa Fire Services were made possible through the funding. Other funded initiatives include upgrades to Richmond Arena, Pinecrest Recreation Complex, and Splash Wave Pool.

Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe said: “Investing in our recreational facilities and community projects enhances community pride, fosters a sense of ownership and encourages people to come together. The funds received from the OLG will continue to help upgrade, maintain, and enhance facilities like the Jim Durrell Recreation Centre and many others.”

Since the Rideau Carleton Casino started offering slots, the OLG has provided the City of Ottawa with almost $100m in gaming revenue.