Downtown Docks To Get Facelift
September 5, 2008
NEWS
Ontario is helping the Town of Northeastern Manitoulin
and the Islands and the Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands Community
Development Corporation construct two new events facilities and additional
finger piers, and accommodate Great Lakes cruising ships.
The province is investing $135,000 in new washrooms for
tourists and seasonal boaters, accommodations for a Farmers' Market
and retail areas, as well as the construction of a weir - a solution
for the low water level problem in the area. This project will help
increase tourism traffic and revenues on the islands.
The funding is part of the Rural
Economic Development Program which invests in community-based projects
in three priority areas:
-
Improved access to health care services
-
Revitalized communities and downtowns
-
Enhanced skills training.
QUOTES
"Visiting cruise ships are an important economic
driver for this community," said Algoma-Manitoulin MPP Mike
Brown. "Finalization of this project will allow for better
access for large vessels and alleviate congestion in the area."
"Transient boaters contribute to approximately $1.2 million per
year to our local economy," said, Mayor Jim Stringer. "Through
this project, we will be able to create a fully functional and appealing
waterfront for boat and vehicle travellers."
QUICK FACTS
-
Since 2003, Ontario has invested $60.1 million in
183 projects through the Rural Economic Development Program.
-
The Town of Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands
is located on the north shore of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay.
For more information contact:
Sherry Persaud, Minister's Office, 416-326-6439
Brent Ross, Communications Branch, 416-326-9342
