First Nations contribute $1.5M to Marathon recreation center project

Two First Nations communities on the north shore of Lake Superior are jointly contributing $1.5 million to the construction of the Marathon Active Living Center.

Biigtigong Nishnaabeg (formerly Pic River) is contributing $1 million and Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg (formerly Pic Mobert) is providing $500,000 for the city’s proposed recreational facility, according to an Oct. 21 news release.

The Active Living Center is part of the redevelopment of the formerly contaminated Marathon Pulp Mill site, which closed in 2009. Construction of the center will begin next year on 3.6 hectares of land on the edge of the water where wood chips were once piled.

The 100,000 square foot building will house an arena, two swimming pools, a senior center, bowling and athletic fields, a community theater, meeting and conference space, interpretive and cultural exhibits, a concession and public spaces, as well as an outdoor play and leisure area. area.

The construction cost is estimated at $65 million. The municipality will submit a request for $50 million to federal and provincial funding programs. The rest of the cost will be covered by the municipality and private contributions.

The project will be put out to tender in early 2025 and construction is expected to begin in spring 2025. The official opening will take place in early 2028.

Overall, the town of Marathon is making a number of residential, social, commercial and industrial improvements, including plans for a commercial port, as part of a mining-fueled boom in the area.

“Biigtigong Nishnaabeg is pleased to work collaboratively with Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg and the City of Marathon to see the Active Living Center become a reality so that residents of the three communities can enjoy the benefits of a healthy lifestyle,” said the Chief Duncan Michano of Biigtigong Nishnaabeg. in a statement.

“As a small First Nation, we rely on our neighboring 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 programs that the Active Living Center will offer to our area communities.

“This unique community investment will provide 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 heritage and mutual respect.