Honda Indy Markham fuels local economy

With the Honda Indy Markham just around the bend, more funding is on its way.

The Ontario government is investing $1.5 million to support the race. The investment is intended to position Ontario as a premier destination for world-class sporting events while supporting local economic growth.

“This world-class event will bring thousands of visitors to Markham, creating new opportunities for local businesses, supporting jobs and giving families the chance to experience one of Canada’s premier motorsport events close to home,” said Paul Calandra, MPP for Markham-Stouffville. “This is a major moment for Markham-Stouffville, and I am incredibly excited to see our residents and local businesses at the heart of it.” 

The federal government announced an investment for the City of Markham to strengthen and expand economic development activities to maximize opportunities as a result of the Honda Indy event.

The investment totalled $3.5 million from FedDev Ontario, and the City of Markham has begun making infrastructure upgrades to sustain the city’s capacity to host major international events.

“A race is never just a race; it is an economic engine. When 150,000 people come to your city and the world is watching in more than 200 countries, that fuels economic development,” said Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “This investment drives growth, builds infrastructure, develops skilled talent, and sends a clear message: Markham is open for business, and Canada is open for investment.”

The City is finalizing the necessary infrastructure, including the track, barriers, and grandstands, which have already been long underway. You can see the current state of the track yourself in the area of Enterprise and Kennedy Road. Unlike the pros, drivers should keep to the speed limits.

Photo: Local dignitaries at the recent government funding announcement (Matthew Fletcher photo)