Province ups Mariners Centre expansion funding by $3M

More money for the Mariners Centre expansion.

Premier Tim Houston was in Yarmouth to announce another $3 million toward the new addition, which will feature a swimming pool, walking track and fitness centre.

The Premier says it’s incredible to see what the community has done.

“This is a good thing for people. It’s a place for children to come and do what kids do, for families and for seniors to gather. It helps with mental and physical health, and we’re happy to do our part,” said Premier Houston.

A sod-turning ceremony was also held outside, where construction has already begun.

West Nova MP Chris d’Entremont got to guide the excavator for the ceremony.

“I’ve always wanted to use one, when they asked me to do it I stepped in, it was a lot of fun,” said d’Entremont.

He says he’s happy all levels of government are involved, and it’s incredible to see the additional funding and how the community is coming up with the extra dollars to make it a reality.

The expansion is expected to be ready in the fall of 2026.

Argyle Warden Nicole Albright is the chair of the expansion committee, and says this relieves some stress.

“We were a little bit concerned that we’d have to go back to councils and ask for more money, but this secures our financial position,” said Albright.

The project is estimated at $41 million, with all three levels of government, donors and fundraising contributing.

Kerry Muise with the fundraising committee says so far, $9 million has been donated by the community, with several big donations coming from local businesses.

She says they’re looking to hit a $10 million goal.